Experience

Safari Night Game Drives Home Experiences Game drives at night Under the cloak of darkness, beneath the African night sky, fascinating, shy and rare nocturnal wildlife is revealed. A safari at night is a thrilling and enlightening adventure, offering a unique layer of excitement. With limited vision, your remaining senses are piqued, cloaked as you are in the pitch-black night. Your guide uses a powerful spotlight, sweeping the beam over the surrounding bush, searching for the glint of an eye in the darkness. What You Might See Africa’s nocturnal wildlife is rare and elusive. Spotting them on a safari night game drive is a treat. As they stare back at you, illuminated in the red-filtered light, the experience is eerily different to a daytime sighting. In cooler conditions at night, lion, leopard, hyena, wild dog, and other smaller carnivores become active. As do the nocturnal species which are so special to see. There is unquestionably an air of excitement when on a safari night drive. As you explore the darkness, you can encounter silent owls, nightjars, chameleons, and bush babies. On occasion, you may be lucky enough to witness an owl stealthily swooping down on its prey out of the darkness. A Sky full of Stars Without any light pollution, the African night sky becomes a spectacular canvas of stars. Guests are often amazed by the crystal-clear stargazing opportunities on a night game drive. Your guide will show you the various galaxies, creating an exciting, informative, and educational expedition. A safari night drive is an experience that everyone should enjoy. Where to go on a Safari Night Drive with Cosmaya You can enjoy our highly sought-after night safari drives from some of our Asilia camps; Oliver’s Camp, Jabali Ridge and Private House, Usangu Expedition Camp, Kokoko Camp, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Naboisho, and Encounter Mara. These exhilarating night safari drives offer a unique opportunity to observe rare and elusive wildlife. It’s a magical sensation to venture into the still African night and simply soak up the sounds of the bush. Safari night game drives are also a unique experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering a fascinating glimpse into its nocturnal world. As darkness descends, the park transforms, revealing a vibrant ecosystem often hidden from daytime visitors. Spotlights illuminate bush babies leaping between branches, leopards stealthily prowling in search of prey, and the glowing eyes of nightjars. These drives provide a rare opportunity to observe nocturnal animals and uncover a different side of the park’s remarkable wildlife. What to Know Before You Go Night drives are often included in your stay at Asilia camps, though this can vary depending on the location, so it’s always best to confirm with your camp in advance. In some instances, an additional fee may apply. These drives are kept small and intimate to enhance the experience, typically private or with a maximum of six guests per vehicle, ensuring plenty of space, personalised guiding, and excellent visibility for all. Drives usually begin after dinner and last between an hour and a half to two hours, allowing plenty of time to explore the nocturnal landscape without it being too late into the evening. Many camps welcome families on night drives, though minimum age requirements can vary. In general, children aged five and older can join, provided they’re accompanied by a parent or guardian. To make the most of your night in the bush, be sure to bring warm layers, as temperatures tend to drop after dark. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are useful for getting in and out of the vehicle, and a camera with low-light or night settings will help capture the magic of the experience. Binoculars are optional but can come in handy for spotting nocturnal birds or distant movement in the undergrowth. Lets Plan Your Dream Safari The Great Migration eBook Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you’ll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari. Get the guide

Hot-Air Balloon Safaris Home Experiences A safari from the sky Indulge in an unforgettable hot-air balloon safari, marvelling at the wildlife from aloft. Don’t let this unique adventure float away without you! As the hot-air balloon pilot inflates the massive balloon for the final time, an incredible thrill fills your body as you gently rise into the crisp early morning skies above the endless savannahs of Tanzania or Kenya. Designed for small groups of adventurers, a hot-air balloon safari takes you above and beyond the ordinary, offering a breathtaking perspective that adds even more magic to your safari adventure. Floating over the iconic Serengeti, Ruaha, the grasslands of the Masai Mara, or the red earth of Tarangire, you begin to truly grasp the enormity of the African landscape. From above, you witness the vast distances wildlife must travel and the challenges they endure for survival. The aerial view provides remarkable opportunities to see herds, predators, and daily wildlife interactions in a way that feels surreal. With the right timing, a hot-air balloon safari grants a front-row seat to the world’s greatest migration spectacle. Watching over a million wildebeest from the skies leaves you in awe of nature’s scale and beauty. A hot-air balloon safari in Tanzania or Kenya is one of the most unforgettable experiences to include in your wildlife adventure. Where to go on a Hot-Air Balloon Safari Many beautiful boutique safari camps in East Africa offer hot-air balloon experiences that launch early to capture the magic of sunrise. We recommend bringing layered clothing, as mornings can be quite chilly both aloft and on the ground. This romantic adventure often concludes with a hearty champagne breakfast set on the open plains—a perfect ending to an unforgettable morning. As these excursions depend on weather, they may be postponed or canceled if conditions are too windy or rainy. Speak with our experienced safari planners to help design the best itinerary and include this once-in-a-lifetime sky adventure. Operated by trusted third-party providers. Serengeti Balloon Safari The Serengeti is one of the world’s most famous national parks. It’s name means ‘endless plains’ and from up high you can truly appreciate the vastness and abundance of space. If you time your Serengeti balloon safari just right, you may even see the awe-inspiring Great Migration with its massive herds of wildebeest and zebra dotting the plains. As you drift over this landscape, keep an eye out hippo in their pools, plentiful plains game and, with a bit of luck, predators on their morning hunt. Balloon safaris in the Serengeti can be from Namiri Plains, Dunia, and Sayari. Our Migration Camps, and Olakira are ideal for balloon safaris over the Migration. The best time of year for a Serengeti balloon safari is during the drier months of the year; between June and November, and between mid-December to mid-March. Masai Mara Balloon Safari The staggering density of wildlife makes the Masai Mara one of the world’s most famous national parks, and a great place to enjoy a balloon safari. If you’re taking your hot-air balloon safari in the Masai Mara during migration season (August and September), you’ll see the true magnitude of the herds of wildebeest and zebra. If, however, you’re visiting after the rains, expect to see a magical sunrise over glittering rivers, pools with hippo, and plentiful plains game. Masai Mara balloon safaris can be conveniently enjoyed from Rekero, as well as from Naboisho and Encounter Mara, and are best enjoyed during the dry months between June and October, and January and February. Ruaha Balloon Safari Operating exclusively during the dry season months from June to October, a balloon safari in Ruaha National Park offers spectacular views of the Ruaha River and the landscape dotted with giant baobab trees. Larger than the Serengeti National Park, the elevated viewpoint helps you understand the sheer enormity of this unique destination. The gentle and predictable winds through this season allow for low-altitude flying just meters above the grunting hippo, as well as climbing to great heights to enjoy the vantage point over this land. Camps to select for a hot-air balloon safari include Jabali Ridge, Jabali Private House, and Kokoko Camp. Tarangire Balloon Safari The diversity of Tarangire National Park makes it a superb destination for a hot air balloon safari. The soft winds offer a slow, almost lazy, balloon safari, creating time to appreciate the landscape and wildlife below. Grassy plains, baobab trees, and rocky outcroppings, coloured with the red soil of this region, carved through by the Tarangire River and the lush green of the Silale Swamp. Watch for impressive herds of buffalo and elephant, their clean grey and black hides glinting in the sunlight as they emerge from the swampy waters. Lets Plan Your Dream Safari The Great Migration eBook Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you’ll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari. Get the guide

Family Safaris Home Experiences Family Adventures Await Enjoy a hand-crafted, fully inclusive family safari and plant your own family tree of unforgettable memories. What Makes Africa a Great Destination for a Family Vacation Educational impact: Safaris provide a hands-on learning about wildlife, ecosystem, and species diversity, offering insights far beyond traditional classroom learning. Adventure: The epitomize adventure, allowing families to explore diverse landscapes and witness wildlife in their natural settings, offering experiences unmatched by any other. Quality time: Safaris offer a rare opportunity for families to unplug and bond deeply, sharing unforgettable moments away from daily distractions. Cultural insights: They also facilitate meaningful cultural exchanges, introducing families to local traditions and ways of life, enriching understanding and broadening worldviews. Conservation awareness: Safari operators often focus on conservation education, helping guests appreciate the importance of protecting nature and wildlife. In today’s world, where families are spread across multiple time zones, an East African family safari perfectly unites and strengthens the bonds of love, togetherness, and kinship. We are connoisseurs in planning fully inclusive family safari itineraries, and our camp teams comprise moms and dads from local communities who go the extra mile to make your stay a magical experience. We warmly welcome all families with genuine smiles and a kind and caring attitude. We will treat you as our own family too. Where to Stay on Your Family Safari A family safari is an intimate, tailor-made celebration that allows you to enjoy Africa’s wildlife without distractions. This adventure is best suited for children over the age of 5, when they can truly appreciate the wonders of nature and take part in exciting, age-appropriate activities. Many safari lodges and camps feature family tents or exclusive private units, perfectly designed to accommodate family travel, with delicious, healthy meals for both adults and children. For an even more exclusive experience, private houses and retreats in prime locations can be arranged to give your family its own space in the wild, guided by expert teams. Beautifully designed boutique camps across Kenya and Tanzania create the perfect backdrop for planting a family tree of laughter, love, and togetherness. These unique safari stays provide unforgettable venues for family adventures, ensuring cherished memories that last a lifetime. Family Safari Tours Family safaris are designed to create exceptional, innovative, and unforgettable itineraries, handcrafted to match the unique needs of every traveler. By listening closely to your family’s preferences and interests, each adventure is tailored to suit your dynamics and ensure lasting memories. From thrilling game drives and educational bush walks for children to meaningful and respectful cultural encounters, family safaris offer a wide range of activities that keep everyone engaged and inspired. To help you begin planning, here are some of the most popular and sought-after family safari vacations—crafted to deliver adventure, connection, and unforgettable experiences for all ages. 4-Day Family Mini Safari Get Together Read More 5-Day Cosmaya Safari Family Special Offer Read More 5-Day Family Safari, from Baobabs to Big Cats Read More The Great Migration eBook Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you’ll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari. Get the guide

Honeymoon Safaris Home Experiences Sheer romance in Africa African honeymoon safaris are meticulously and creatively custom-designed, ensuring your complete contentment. Cosmaya Safari are intimate, exclusive and exude romance. An African honeymoon safari celebration with Cosmaya Safari in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda’s most iconic wildlife areas promises an unforgettable and deeply romantic adventure. Each safari experience is thoughtfully designed and set in breathtaking tranquility. Cosmaya Safari’s warm and caring team ensures you feel genuinely welcomed and at home. They go above and beyond to create a unique, exciting, and ultra-special environment, making your journey truly memorable. All safari experiences with Cosmaya Safari are boutique and exclusive in design, offering understated elegance and comfort. The layout allows you to enjoy privacy or connect with others as you wish. For honeymoon couples, a private dining table is always arranged, with sweeping, uninterrupted views of Africa’s vast landscapes. Sharing meals with fellow travelers is optional and easily organized. Days unfold with game drives or walking safaris alongside other guests, while private vehicles are available for a more tailored and intimate adventure. With expert guides revealing the magic of the wilderness and its incredible wildlife, Cosmaya Safari creates the perfect honeymoon recipe—romantic, unforgettable, and filled with memories to last a lifetime. Honeymoon Safari Itineraries Choosing a honeymoon destination can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help.  Exude romance, style, and adventure, and our knowledgeable team has the experience to create the perfect honeymoon itinerary which is carefully tailored to your requirements. Whatever your dream honeymoon safari entails, we can help make it happen. Join us as we journey across the East African wilderness, enveloped in comfort and genuine hospitality. We’ll take care of everything, leaving you to enjoy the unforgettable memories we’ll create together. 5-Day A Luxury Honeymoon Safari Experience Read More 7-Day Honeymoon Mid-Range Tarangire Crater Serengeti Read More 8-Day Mid-Range Honeymoon Safari (3 Nights Serengeti) Read More The Great Migration eBook Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you’ll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed map of how the migration moves; a selection of the best places to stay on safari; and expert tips for an unforgettable safari. Get the guide

Your Guide To The Great Migration Home Experiences The Great Wildebeest Migration The Great Wildebeest Migration One of the most sought-after experiences for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, the Great Migration is the ever-moving circular migration of over a million animals across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The constant movement of columns of wildebeest, joined by a host of companions, follow an age-old route in search of grazing and water. After calving in the southern part of Tanzania’s Serengeti near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the animals journey through the Serengeti up and around in a clockwise direction towards the Masai Mara in Kenya, before returning once again near the end of the year. Along the way, high drama is always present, as thousands of animals are taken by predators and thousands more are born, replenishing the numbers and sustaining the circle of life. What Is The Great Migration The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet. In fact, with up to 1,000 animals per km², the great columns of wildebeest can be seen from space. The numbers are astonishing: over 1.2 million wildebeest and 300,000 zebra along with topi and other gazelle move in a constant cycle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of nutritious grass and water. Guided by survival instinct, each wildebeest will cover 800 to 1,000km on its individual journey along age-old migration routes. Hungry predators including lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, wild dog and crocs make sure only the strongest survive in this natural spectacle also known as ‘the greatest show on Earth.’ The circuit takes the animals from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (although not into the Crater itself) in the south of the Serengeti in Tanzania, up through the Serengeti and across into the Masai Mara in Kenya and back again. The journey is beset with danger: young calves are snatched by predators, the slow are brought down by prides of lion, brave beasts break legs on steep river slopes, crocodiles take their share of the stragglers, and the weak and exhausted drown. The three groups of migrant grazers have different grass-eating habits: as one group eats the top of the tallest grass, the next group will eat away some of the medium-height grass, until finally it is almost completely eaten, and the herds move on. This means each group sticks to their own kind with only a small overlap in their distributions. The grasses of the plains have the highest protein content in the whole of the Serengeti, as well as being high in calcium. It is unclear how the wildebeest know which way to go, but it is generally believed that their journey is dictated primarily by their response to the weather; they follow the rains and the growth of new grass. While there is no scientific proof of it, some experts believe that the animals react to lightning and thunderstorms in the distance. It has even been suggested that wildebeest can locate rain more than 50km away. The Great Migration in January, February and March Around January each year, the migration will be finishing a southward trek, moving along the eastern edge of the Serengeti and into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here the plains are rich in nutritious grass, providing the herds with the best conditions for raising their newborn calves. Although there is no real beginning or end to this migratory circuit — other than birth and death — it seems reasonable to call the wildebeests’ birthing season the start of the migration. Around late January or February, the herds occupy the short-grass plains that spread over the lower northern slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater highlands and around Olduvai Gorge. Some 400,000 calves are born here within a period of two to three weeks, or nearly 8,000 new calves every day. The abundance of vulnerable young calves means the surrounding predators also spring into action, hunting with ease due to the sheer numbers of wildebeest. Those interested in witnessing calving and the drama of big cats on the hunt should look to Asilia’s migration camps in the southern Serengeti which provide direct access: Olakira, Kimondo and Ubuntu. The Great Migration in August, September and October By August, the herds have faced the challenge of crossing the Mara River and are spread throughout the Masai Mara’s northern region, with many remaining in the northern Serengeti. In years when the river is in full flow, the panic and confusion at the crossings — combined with waiting predators and surging currents — can cause massive loss of life. But, even in years of relatively gently flowing water, the crocs take their toll, not to mention the lions and other large predators that patrol the banks, ready to ambush any wildebeest that make it to the other side. There is no single crossing: at some spots, there are just a few individuals, while others see a mass of animals moving without break for hours. By September to October, the main chaos has ended and the migrating columns have gradually moved eastward. However, they wildebeest will face the heavy waters of the Mara River once more as they prepare to cross once again for their return journey southward. The Great Migration in November and December After the East African short rains in late October and early November, the wildebeest move down from Kenya and into the eastern limits of the Serengeti past Namiri Plains, an area known for outstanding cheetah sightings. By December, they are spread throughout the eastern and southern reaches. In the early months of the new year, the grasses in the deep south of the Serengeti are lush with rain. This draws the herds of wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and other plains animals. The cycle continues as the calving season starts once again. Lets Plan Your Dream Safari The Great Migration eBook Learn everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Great Migration Safari in our eBook guide.  Inside the guide you’ll find: a month-by-month summary; a detailed