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Mike in Damaraland, Namibia

Mike

Kenya & Namibia Specialist

I have always had a desire to see the world. After graduating from the University of Gloucestershire with a Bachelor of Arts, BA (Hons) Degree in Sports Tourism Management, I had the opportunity to spend time in Canada, the USA, Australia, Southeast Asia and Africa.

I joined Audley in 2012, exploring extensively Canada, Alaska and the Arctic. In addition to these destinations I have recently now followed my love for cultural diversity, natural scenery and spectacular wildlife by spending time in Kenya and Namibia. Besides travel, I enjoy camping in the great outdoors, the occasional round of golf and religiously following motor sport.

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Audley Travel Specialist Mike

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Dunes at Sossusvlei

I recommend visiting - Sossusvlei & Sesriem, Namibia

Located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, is one of the most iconic destinations within Namibia, Sossusvlei.

In the heart of the desert, Sossusvlei is home to the largest sand dunes in the world some of which reaching up to 400 metres high. Sossusvlei is the region where the dunes come together preventing the Tsauchab River to flow any further, some 60 km east of the Atlantic Ocean. The dunes are best seen in the morning, as soon as the park gates open and the sun starts to rise. The colours of the sand dunes as the sun rises with the bright blue skies above is just spectacular, a photographer's dream. There are many attractions for visitors to explore including Sesriem Canyon, Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Big Daddy and Deadvlei.

To get a true perspective of the vast scale of Sossusvlei, there is no better excursion than taking a hot air balloon ride, the views from the sky are just superb. There is also a wide variety of plants and wildlife that have adapted to this region. Accommodation varies from camp sites to luxury lodges all with influences of the surrounding areas offering spectacular views.

Tea on the terrace at Saruni

I recommend staying at - Saruni Mara, Kenya

Deluxe

Within the Samburu Conservancy in northern Kenya lies a beautiful property called Saruni Samburu. Saruni is simply stunning nestled on top of a rocky hill top offering spectacular views of the rolling plains and mountains in the distance. The camp itself is very small with just six eco-friendly villas all overlooking 200,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness and is the only property within the Kalama Conservancy so guests can be sure of a very intimate and exclusive safari experience. Along with offering guests a very exclusive experience of African wildlife, Saruni also has close links with local Maasai communities. The camp does amazing work to enhance education and to help with farming and encourages their guests to visit the local villages to learn more about their fascinating culture.

The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife with huge herds of Samburu elephant to large prides of lion and other big cats. Samburu is also home to the rare endemic species such as the Grevy’s Zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.

I'll never forget when…

One of my most memorable highlights of travelling to Kenya was actually on my very first visit when I flew into the Masai Mara. The density of wildlife within the Masai Mara is just staggering and completely took my by surprise. On our descent into the Mara, we could see wildebeest and antelope grazing in their hundreds with giraffe calmly feeding on Acacia trees. On the short transfer from the airstrip to the camp, I encountered one of the largest herds of elephant that I have ever seen. At the last count, my guide and I counted 53 elephant including baby calves. We viewed from a distance at first, then the herd slowly started making their way toward the vehicle. Completely unfazed, they strolled calmly around us, making their way to the nearby Mara River. It was one of the most awe-inspiring experiences I have ever had.

Photos of Mike

  • Mike in Damaraland, Namibia Mike in Damaraland, Namibia
  • Mike on safari in Kicheche Laikipia, Kenya Mike on safari in Kicheche Laikipia, Kenya
  • Mike in the Erongo Mountains, Namibia Mike in the Erongo Mountains, Namibia
  • Mike at Ongava Reserve in Etosha National Park, Namibia Mike at Ongava Reserve in Etosha National Park, Namibia
  • Mike visiting a local village in Samburu National Park, Kenya Mike visiting a local village in Samburu National Park, Kenya