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High Flying Offer

Take advantage of last-minute Green Season offers

Guests booking SkySafari itineraries up and to the 31st May 2024 are in for treat with a fantastic selection of value-added offers to make their experience even more memorable. From complimentary massage, a night game drive and a visit to a rhino conservation project to discounts on hot air balloon tours and exclusive vehicle use, now is a great time to fly SkySafari.

Guests booking the Tanzania departures will enjoy:

• Complimentary visit to the Moru rhino project for a lecture on rhino conservation in the Serengeti and the chance to follow a rhino protection unit in search of black rhinos off the beaten track for an unforgettable experience
• Complimentary additional 30-minute massage during their stay at The Manor, Ngorongoro
• 50% discount* if booking an exclusive-use vehicle at any of the properties on the itinerary
• 25% discount* on a balloon flight in the Serengeti through our preferred balloon partner

Guests booking the Kenya departures will enjoy:

• Complimentary night game drive at Loisaba Conservancy
• Complimentary additional 30-minute massage during their stay at Loisaba Tented Camp
• 50% discount* if booking an exclusive-use vehicle at any of the properties on the itinerary
• 25% discount* on a balloon flight in the Masai Mara through our preferred balloon partner

Conditions apply and the offer is subject to availability. It is non-combinable with any other offer and only valid during a SkySafari experience booked over the stated period.

*Please note that exclusive use vehicle and balloon discounts are discounted based on the published rack rate of the operators.

Why Fly Sky in Green Season

We explore the reason why many are now considering the green season as a better value time of year to travel to East Africa.

With changing and less predictable climate patterns, the historic argument for avoiding the green season is losing some of its weight. That coupled with less people, an increase in the cutest cubs, calves, chicks and pups, lush vegetation and a lower price point, there are many reasons to consider traveling ‘Green’.

This time of year is very popular with photographers, both professional and amateur. The lack of other vehicles makes for uninterrupted images, plus the ability to capture more of the landscape. Colours tend to be more vivid and there is a higher chance of capturing animals with their young as many are in birthing season. Even a passing storm is welcomed for its dramatic effect and vivid contrast.

The low season is also a fantastic time for bird lovers, allowing them to observe their unique characteristics, including nest building techniques and mating habits.

All of the above, coupled with the fact that prices are substantially lower means that this time of year is starting to get the rightful attention that it deserves.

Sky High Guides

Guide Mohamed Boru shares his thoughts on why the green season is a fantastic time to safari

We recently spoke with guide Mohamed Boru, who has worked with different Elewana properties over the years, about what makes the green season such a fantastic time to go on safari.

How does the green season differ from others in terms of wildlife encounters and landscapes?

The green season, also known as the rainy season, is characterized by lush green landscapes, abundant water sources, and an increase in migratory bird species. Wildlife encounters can be different during this time as animals disperse more widely due to the availability of water and vegetation throughout the savannah.

What are the advantages to traveling during this time in terms of crowd levels and exclusivity?

The green season is considered the low season for tourism in many safari destinations, offering travellers a more exclusive and intimate experience with wildlife thanks to lower crowd levels. With fewer tourists around, travellers have more exclusivity in the parks and may have more opportunities for private game drives and a more personalised safari experience.

How does the green season contribute to the overall sustainability and conservation efforts of the communities where SkySafari operates?

By promoting tourism during the lower season, operators like SkySafari support conservation efforts and contribute to the livelihoods of local communities through the Land & Life Foundation where are guests are welcome to donate funds for purchasing school supplies as well as scholarships for the students. SkySafari is also actively involved with efforts with Carbon Tanzania. The green season can also benefit local communities by providing alternative sources of income during the low season, such as with beekeeping where we support the bee keeping farmers by purchasing their honey. We also support farmers in other communities as well thanks to our local ties.

Can you describe any special activities or excursions that guests can participate in during a green season safari?

In addition to wonderful game drives, sundowners and bush breakfasts, guests can also enjoy a diverse array of activities during the green season such as bird watching, walking safaris, night game drives, as well as visits to local communities and schools.

How do the landscapes transform during the green season, and how does this influence the photography opportunities for guests?

The green season transforms the landscapes into a lush paradise with vibrant colours, creating stunning backdrops for photography. The soft, diffused light during this time can enhance the colours and textures of the surroundings, making it a great time for photography enthusiasts. There is also the incredible beauty of plants and wildflowers like morning glory, pentanesia & fireball lilies amongst a few, together with the unique doum palm & baobab trees, which are a site worth seeing.

Could you share any anecdotes or memorable wildlife experiences from past green season safaris with guests?

During the green season, guests may witness incredible wildlife sightings such as new-born animals, predators hunting in the verdant landscapes, and a variety of bird species displaying their breeding plumage.

Community Support

SkySafari guests support local communities throughout the year including during green season

SkySafari guests play a vital role in supporting local communities in Kenya and Tanzania, particularly during the green season. Thanks to SkySafari’s partnership with Elewana Collection properties, every SkySafari guest who overnights at an Elewana Collection property sees a portion of their bed night cost set aside by Elewana as a contribution to the Land & Life Foundation. These contributions ensure communities in key wildlife conservation areas benefit directly from tourism. The funds fuel targeted educational programs, community outreach initiatives, and conservation projects, covering everything from securing land for conservation to providing tangible benefits to local people.

The importance of support during the green season cannot be underestimated. As the low season for tourism, communities reliant on income generated from wildlife-related activities often face economic challenges during this time. With contributions during the green season, financial pressures are alleviated, ensuring that essential programs and initiatives can continue uninterrupted, even when visitor numbers are lower.

L&L’s efforts extend to education, with programs like the Wildlife Warrior Program inspiring the next generation of conservationists. Moreover, their conservation initiatives, such as the Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation Program, showcase innovative solutions to protect both crops and wildlife. Through logistical support, including medical camps and educational supplies for schools, they make a tangible difference in improving the lives of those living alongside wildlife.

SkySafari guests have the opportunity to witness these community projects first-hand during their safari, enriching their safari experience with a deeper understanding of the positive impact of responsible tourism. By supporting local communities year-round, including during the green season, safari-goers contribute to the long-term sustainability of wildlife conservation efforts and help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy East Africa’s natural wonders.