Freeman Safaris testimonials

Freeman Safaris

‘Yesterday’s Safaris Today’

Testimonials

What a Fantastic Experience!

Jambo Brian,

You promised me a memorable Mara safari.
Wow! How you kept your promise!
From the moment I alighted from the aircraft and set foot in the Mara to the time we said our goodbyes, every hour of the 8 days I spent with you and your fabulous team was full of experiences never to be forgotten. Even through the night I heard the welcoming sounds of the animals I had come to enjoy the company of; the unforgettable heart throbbing roar of the Lion, Hippos bellowing and munching grass outside my tent, a Leopard (Olive?) with her throaty cough-like roar... and more.

In the Mara they talk not of the big five; but the big "six", Lion, Rhino, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and the Cheetah. In the first three days I got super shots (camera!) of them all. AND the Rhino was a black one (out in the open); after four safaris I finally got the shot!
Other highlights: A memorable Cheetah kill, speed that must be seen to be believed as she finally brought down the young impala. Mating Lions. Lioness carrying her two-week old cub (unfortunately the cub was dead two days later due to maternal neglect). Marvellous close encounters with Elephants. The courtship display of the Kori Bustard. A hard to spot and seldom seen Nightjar. Two spectacular Wildebeest migration crossings of the Mara River. As seen on TV, but you have to be there in person to really appreciate the sight and sounds of this truly remarkable event. The resident Leopard Olive, and her two generations of male cubs play-fighting; what a time spent watching these superb animals. No dashing off to find the next animal like most other safari groups. You and your team of excellent driver/guides ensure we have time to photograph, observe and study the animal’s behaviour. You also know how to get us into position for the best view and best light for photography. How Martin managed to anticipate the animal’s next move and be in position for THAT shot was remarkable.

I cannot fail to mention my fellow guests, they were all super and great fun to be with. They even tolerated my many senior moments and my down to earth Yorkshire manner and sense of humour. It would be a real pleasure to meet up with them again on a future Freeman safari. (Folks, if you are reading this.... keep in touch!)

You and your team left nothing to be desired (except mating Leopards or even mating Black Rhino!). The food was delicious, many a four star restaurant would find it difficult to match. Obi, you are a marvel, and what a welcome to dinner was your samosas... yummy.

Brian, I cannot thank you enough for delivering all that you promised. I am looking forward to joining you on safari again next September ( I promise not to recite any more Camel stories!)

Trevor, October 2011

**************************************************

I cannot believe that it is a week since we left your amazing camp! Tim and I had the time of our lives in the Masai Mara being driven round by Dan in the company of our wonderful friends Alice and Alistair We marvelled at the wild life living just outside (and possibly inside!) the camp and what’s more at 6.32am every morning we were out there watching them. We experienced service from your staff the like of which has long disappeared from our shores. The food was delicious and Michael was always on hand to organise our hot shower in the evenings.

As for our days spent out with the gentle and knowledgeable Dan I can only say nothing will ever better our two week observing the animals whether it was a leopard taking its kill up a tree, the wildebeest trying to decide whether to cross the river or just a pair of irate birds chasing off a lion cub who had strayed too close to their nest. There were times when it was just the five of us watching birds by the river or quietly watching tiny lion cubs annoying their mother by pulling on her tail. In this crowded world of ours these were moments to treasure and it is all entirely due to the fact that you run your camp in a way that blends so perfectly into its surroundings.

Finally not only were our days out pretty perfect but our fellow guests were special people too - how different we all were but totally as one when sitting around the campfire exchanging tales from our day in the Mara.

I think one of the reasons for the delay in writing to you, other than grandchildren on half term, was that I thought by the end of the week I would think of something you could improve on! Well dream on - it was all perfect so a very big thank you to you and all your staff.

Geraldine and Tim, October 2011

**************************************************

Thanks for a magical experience

Caroline and I had an absolutely brilliant experience on our recent safari. We knew it was going to be good based on Keith and Sandra’s recommendation, yet it still exceeded our expectations. The attention to detail from you and your team is what makes it special. The camp is run very efficiently, but without appearing so! It feels informal and friendly, very relaxed. Everyone is friendly and good at what they do. The hospitality is exceptional, the food outstanding and the G & T's out of this world. The guides are really great. We had a terrific time with Martin, he knew just where to position the Land Rover to get the best views and shots. He is a real asset to you. Daniel was also good at getting us to sightings and finding hidden animals and birds. They were both also fun to be with - very personable.

We have no hesitation in recommending Freeman Safaris to friends and family alike. We hope to come back one day with our grand-daughters when they are a few years older and can really get the best from the experience.

Please take care of yourself and give our very best wishes to everyone
at Mara Camp.

Tony and Caroline, October 2011

**************************************************

We have been meaning to e-mail since we got back on Monday, but everyday life seems to have taken over and we have been making the most of the wonderful weather we have returned to.

We want to say thank you very much for meeting our expectations and providing us with a truly wonderful wildlife experience. From the moment we landed at the airstrip we felt so welcome, the camp was so relaxing it was great meeting so many like-minded travellers. We know how hard you work behind the scenes to make everything run so smoothly, the camp is a real credit to you as are your staff. The food was wonderful and extremely healthy. The camp staff were great as were your guides, Dan worked really hard for us and nothing seemed to be too much trouble. This trip will provide us with happy memories for a very long time – well done you!!

Thanks once again, keep up the good work!

Caroline and Robin September 2011

**************************************************

Sally and I have been going to Africa on safari for 16 years and to Brian's camps for 10 years.

You could say we are seasoned safari travellers and experienced wildlife photographers and have probably seen all there is to see. How wrong that statement proved to be!

Brian's Mara camp has changed a lot over the years and is now a very slick operation with up to 5 vehicles out in the field daily, all with first class driver/guides in radio contact with each other.

Obi the chef continues to produce five star meals which are all very tasty and nutritious.

The weather during our September 2011 safari was unseasonal with some rain most days, but the lack of strong sunshine enabled us to photograph later into the mornings. Time in the field was on average 10 hours a day which increased our chances of seeing more wildlife including birds and to be able to linger longer over any given opportunity.

This safari, for content, action and variety of species, was probably the best safari we have done in Africa .It would take too long to write about all the experiences we had but to precis it, we had very good sightings of Caracal twice, Black Rhino twice, 14 Leopard sightings and cubs, several Cheetahs and cubs and a Cheetah making an Impala kill, a Hyena den with approximately four week old cubs that loved to play tug of war with their older siblings using a piece of Wildebeest hide and two different dens of Black Backed Jackals with young, with one set of pups probably being only a few weeks old.

We saw many prides of Lions with lots of cubs, including three four week old cubs being introduced to a kill for the first time where they were very frightened to approach it at first. There was almost not a day that went by without us seeing some predator(s) on a new kill.

Because the grass was green from the rains the Wildebeest were very confused and although they knew they were supposed to make their river crossings they struggled to make their minds up and would almost start to cross but then change their minds. We did however see some quite large crossings but not regularly. Also, because it was a bit wet and green it seemed to make all sorts of game think it was time for mating, including several different pairs of Lions, which only added to the interest of our game viewing.

There were many large herds of Buffalo, Topi, Impala, Giraffe and Eland. Birds were plentiful including Secretary birds, Kori Bustards and many of the smaller bustards, and many different raptors and vultures. The green grass brought the pretty Rosy-breasted Longclaw into good view.

We must not forget Lake Nakuru, where we spent two days and although it was very wet and the numbers of Flamingos were down due to the deep water, the viewing was still excellent and the lack of sun seemed to enhance the soft lighting so the flamingo colours became more vibrant. There were, unusually for this time of year, many waders at the water's edge and large herds of game on view, including at least 15 White Rhino, some with calves and several Black Rhino.

Great Leopard sightings were had and several mating Lions and also very small Lion cubs were seen. The highlight was probably seeing Lions making a Buffalo kill in good view from the stalk through to the kill.

Probably the only thing we missed out on our trip was mating leopards!

We are certainly looking forward to our next safari with Brian and his crew.

Derek and Sally September 2011

**************************************************

This year we visited Brian Freeman's camp in the Masai Mara for the 2nd time after visiting in 2009. Repeat business is the best testimonial to the quality of Brian's safaris and it seems to us that most people who take the plunge and book a safari with Brian are hooked and become regular visitors and friends.

For me an important aspect is the location of the camp in a wooded area overlooking a hippo pool in the heart of the Mara. There are no fences and only the thickness of the canvas tent separate you from the local inhabitants of the area. (Don't worry - it is safe!) Listening to the sounds of the frogs and crickets at night along with hippos grunting, lions roaring and leopards 'coughing' is magical. ... as are the fireflies near the camp fire. The Mara is popular with good reason - the range and number of game is extraordinary.

Brian and his staff will get you ‘up close and personal’ as promised and will happily tailor the itinerary to your particular interests. I would recommend looking at the photographs on Brian's website. Before I went I might have thought that these exaggerated the sights that might be expected. I now know that they do not. There are no guarantees as to exactly what you will see - but you can be sure that you will have many wonderful and sometimes unexpected experiences. I should also add the Freeman's safaris represent very good value for money. I will certainly have no reservations about recommending them to any of my friends who want an excellent safari experience.

One word of caution... If you are the sort of person who isn't too interested in wildlife and just want a quick foray away from a beach resort, these safaris may not be for you. They are 'full on' and involve long days out observing the amazing creatures that inhabit the area.

Exactly what I wanted! Thanks Brian... and thanks to all of your wonderful staff !

Alan & Marie, September 2011

**************************************************

Just a few lines to say thank-you for a fantastic week.

We both thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. A big thanks to all your staff (especially Peter and Bernard) for making our stay most memorable.

The location of the camp, the accommodation, the wildlife in abundance, the food, the organisation, the company of the other guests (and of course, yourself) could not be faulted and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend Freeman Safaris (did I mention the samosas?)

A bit disappointed with my photos so it looks like we'll have to do it all again!

Once again, thank you.

Ross & Caroline, September 2011

**************************************************

We want to thank you for what was not just the best holiday we've ever had, but the experience of a lifetime. From the moment we stepped off the plane to the moment we stepped on again, our every need was catered for with a willingness we've never encountered before. We would like to thank every one of your staff for their hard work to ensure that we had such a comfortable and exciting holiday. Please pass on our special thanks to Martin for ensuring that we saw every animal we could ever wish for, and particularly for his efforts (and tireless manoeuvring!) to enable us to obtain the best photos possible. We really enjoyed his company, which made each day even more pleasurable.

It was always a delight to return to delicious food at lunchtime and again in the evening, and to also be greeted by a hot shower and a welcome cup of tea or glass of cola! In the evening it was fun sitting around the fire and exchanging the news of the day's sightings with other guests at the camp. Not forgetting listening to the sounds of the hippos and lions, which all added to the excitement and experience!

Finally we were impressed by your overall attention to detail, to ensure that everyone was comfortable and gained maximum satisfaction from the incredible game drives. We look forward to coming back and are already recommending you to so many people that we are starting to worry there may not be room for us in future!!

Once again, a BIG thank you to you and all your staff who have worked tirelessly to give us such a wonderful holiday.

Pat and Helen, August 2011

**************************************************

Even though we had chosen to come on safari at this time of year to watch the crossings, which were astounding in themselves, I think our most memorable moments were with the cats. Watching a leopard haul a wildebeest up a steep bank and changing tactics to get it up different inclines, waiting with the three cheetah brothers until a kill was spotted and seeing them bring it down without too much trouble at all, seeing a mother lion carrying her cub around in her mouth so gently and yet knowing she could crush so easily a kill.

I remember one day watching a mother cheetah with her two sons, who must have been nearly ready for leaving, making a kill and three times she crept up on young wildebeest and each time before she got close enough for the chase, they came hurtling in and the moment was lost. When eventually she did make a kill and whilst still recovering, lions were heard and it had to be left, though the lions seemed more interested in moving on the cheetahs than taking over the kill and it was left for the hyenas.

Our most unusual cat was the servals, a mother and her two kittens, she circled away from them trying to get us to move on, but the two youngsters were quite happy to play and poke their heads up occasionally, posing for photos.

We had a great time on safari and back at camp where we were made most welcome from the moment we arrived and were treated as friends when we left. Everyone in our group were very friendly and good company, we look forward to doing it again soon, so glad we found Freeman safaris.

Dave & Jan Neale , September 2010 See their Photo Gallery here

**************************************************

AH MARA

What name that conjures!

The rolling savannah, tree lined rivers, lone trees, whistling acacia, Rhino Ridge, Lookout Hill, Oloololo Escarpment, Talek and Mara Rivers.

The Sunrise and Sunset,

Ah Mara!

The Nyama herds moving in their thousands, young born unsteady on their legs with umbilical cords still attached, not long before they are running, they need to!

Big Cats, small cats preying on the Nyama, life goes on, sometimes cruel, but as nature intended, everyone needs to be fed, Ah Mara!

And after, the Jackal, Hyena, Vultures and Marabou all gorge picking it clean. The glimpse of soaring Bateleur and Fish Eagle, Buzzard, Ground Hornbill and Secretary bird,

Ah Mara!

The swift flowing river and a crossing, how lucky the wildebeest to escape the jaws of a large reptilian creature, how moving to see and hear the baying of a mother Zebra calling to her foal left behind at the crossing and then to see her re-cross and be re-united,

Ah Mara!

The approaching rainstorm with its rainbow, we stop and batten down the hatches, then the deluge, turning the black cotton into treacle testing the drivers, and the lush green grass grows in the following sun,

Ah Mara!

The Maasai cow herds mingling with the nyama grazing on the grass sleek and well fed, the herdsmen running away from the approaching green unmarked green landrover, to hide, but their red gives them away, yes they shouldn't be there!

Ah Mara!

Our spotters all in red, perhaps wearing their new topcoats supplied by Mzee to keep out the chill of the early morning, weighing us all up, ever watchful, The Mzee, the Johns and Taki on their mobile phones gleaning information, then suddenly, Leopard, Lion, or Shakira with her 6 young playing around her,

Ah Mara!

Then home, Francis making sure the new showers are the right temperature, then the campfire, the Tusker or Wine to lubricate the larynx, maybe a song later,and the good food, how does he do it with a charcoal oven? Then bed to the noise of Hyena, Hippo,and Lion, soon to another day in The Mara!, wonderful, and when you finally leave, the choked farewells and stifled tears,

AH MARA.

Yes we have done safaris, all njema (good), but Brian and his crew take the biscuit and has beaten them all.

John and Karen, November 2010

*************************************************

Jambo Mzee!

Many thanks for such a spectacular safari. You have a wonderful staff who went out of their way to look after our party which ranged in age from 9 to 71. The children loved their little interconnected tent with "en suite". John Masai, our driver, was excellent at spotting the game and getting us to exactly the right position for viewing and photographing. He was also extremely patient - putting up with my demands for new Swahili words, Mum's terror at crossing the Luggas and Dad's terrible jokes!

The wildlife was magnificent - two leopards, 12 cheetahs (including the Mum and 6 gorgeous cubs - fingers crossed they all make it), lots of lions, A PANGOLIN!, hyenas, bat-eared foxes and masses of plains game. The highlight was the huge Mara River crossing - very emotional. Watching the massing at the river bank and all the changes of mind of the wildebeest was unforgettable. The utter chaos and panic of the animals could never be captured by a TV programme.

We loved the camp - such a lovely location overlooking the hippo pool and hearing the animals outside the tent at night was such an experience - I never knew hippos munched so loudly! And it sounded like the lions and hyenas were virtually in the camp. Not like some of the big lodges where the wildlife experience stops as soon as you return through the gates in the evening. The food was delicious - Obi does wonders and the children loved watching him make the evening's samosas. We promise to try and make them at home but I imagine they won't quite taste the same when we're not sitting next to that roaring fire under a bright starry sky listening to the hippos fighting. And no Daniel to offer them round, of course!

As I said when we left you at the airstrip, this was my 5th safari and it was the best by a long shot. My parents had the trip of a lifetime and the children have gone off to school today with the best "What I did during the holidays" stories ever.

I did get a few reasonable pictures with my happy snappy camera so will e-mail some through soon.

Good luck with the house building - can't wait to see the finished product!

Asante sana, kwaheri and see you again soon.

Julie and Family, November 2010

Jambo Brian,

Hope all's well at the camp.

Thank you so much for an absolutely fabulous safari. You certainly put the time in to make it a success. Despite being on quite a large number of safaris in the past, it amazed me that we came across so many 'firsts - not seen that before', and there will be many more 'firsts' to come I am sure because wildlife is so unpredictable. We met some great people and have made some really lovely new friends. I felt very sad indeed to have to leave you all but will keep in touch. We weren’t able to say goodbye to Taki, I hope all is well in his family - will you please give him our good wishes.

Looked out for you as we left the airstrip and saw you 'flashing' - hope you saw us waving furiously.

See you soon and all the best,

Frank and Veronica, October 2010

Jambo Brian,

Just a brief note to say thanks for an amazing week of wildlife watching and photography (Sigma lens problem not withstanding). The excessive use by the media of superlatives to describe anything that is barely above the mundane devalues their use. However last week was truly amazing. The experience was enhanced by the company of like-minded people. Please convey to those remaining in camp my appreciation of their company. The lioness’s kill snookered any hope of a dramatic scrambled crossing down steep bank sides – I’ll just have to wait until next year.

See you in 2011

Regards,

John, October 2010

Jambo Brian and Esther,

I'm not really very good with words as you may have noticed by my lack of verbal thanks whilst on safari.
To be honest I was quite upset to be leaving you both in that wonderful part of the world.
What I really wanted to say to you both was I had a truly brilliant time with you and the safari was everything I could have wished for.

Seeing so many animals and birds of all different types was just unbelievable. The staff, camps and whole atmosphere was welcoming from start to finish. I know you both work incredibly hard to achieve that and it can’t be easy at times.
Anyway, I don't want to bore you any longer. I'm sure you get these type of emails all the time. As I said, the safari was BRILLIANT!!

Take care of yourselves
Simon, July 2010

Great memories to cherish forever

Hello Brian, I just wanted to take the opportunity to thank you and all your staff in Kenya for making my safari one of the best I have experienced in 22 years of travelling.

Your relaxed but professional 'set up' gave both a 'home from home' feel, and you 'so understood' what the ladies and I wanted from 'our' safari.

I intend to monitor the events there in the Mara from your website and once I have completed my DVD from my time there I will send this to you, hoping that through time you and your staff and perhaps other friends will enjoy the photos and video clips that made my return to Kenya on safari so very special.

Once again, thank you and I hope to be in contact in the future with a view to bringing other friends to Kenya to experience the wonderful, genuine hospitality provided through 'Brian Freeman safaris'.

Steve, July 2010

Because we are enthusiastic wildlife photographers my husband, Rick, and I had long dreamed of travelling to Africa. We were looking for a more personalized experience than most tours offer and a chance meeting a few years ago in British Columbia, Canada with British photographer, Peter Price, led us to Brian's website. (Thank you Peter for your perfect recommendation) After studying the site we knew we had found what we were looking for and booked a customized 16 days "Best of Kenya" followed by 4 days on a "Gorilla Safari" in Rwanda.

Our February safari proved absolutely magical. Finding the three cheetah brothers late in our second day in the Mara and then early the next morning watching them stalk and kill a warthog was amazing. We saw more species of animals than we'd ever anticipated including many young ones. Sitting in camp enjoying tea or sundowners above the hippo pool was fantastic. We were lulled to sleep by munching sounds as the hippos devoured the grasses around our tent. Our Samburu camp, on the Ewaso Nyiro River bank, provided us with the opportunity to watch elephant herds cross the river while we were eating lunch or sipping G and Ts. We loved the magnificent birdlife to which Brian introduced us both in the Mara and Samburu, and enjoyed each new sighting more than the last.

We didn't want our African experience to be only with wildlife so we'd told Brian that we wanted to see Africans in their villages. He arranged visits to Masai and Samburu manyattas and Kikuyu shambas where we were welcomed warmly and had the opportunity to talk to the tribal people and learn about their lives and customs. He also arranged a visit to a school which, to our surprise, was built with assistance from groups and individuals in our province, Alberta, Canada. In Nakuru Esther accompanied us on a visit to the colourful local market where she buys fruit and vegetables. We were thrilled with all these fantastic photo opportunities.

Our Gorilla Safari in Rwanda proved to be beyond belief. The tracking was difficult and I wasn't sure I'd make it but, with a strong helping hand from my porter and the park ranger, I managed. My husband's thrill of a lifetime came when the gorilla put his hand on Rick's shoulder, a very gentle touch that he'll never forget.

We expected we'd only make one trip to Kenya in our lifetime but know that we must find a way to return. Brian is the ultimate host and guide and with his staff provides a safari that is truly wonderful.

Kaye and Rick Madsen, March 2010 See their photos in the Photo Gallery

My sister and I want to express our thanks to you and your staff for the excellent holiday we had with Freeman Safaris.

Because of our ages (61 and 71 respectively), we were both apprehensive as to whether such a holiday would be too much for us (particularly me) and would suit our needs, but we need not have worried. There was absolutely nothing more you could have done for us, particularly providing the opportunities to see such a wide diversity of wildlife on a regular daily basis from sun-up to sun-down, nor could we have chosen a better company for such a trip. Our every wish was catered for, or we only had to ask - nothing was too much trouble including arranging for us to visit a local beekeeper, which Jennifer found to be one of the highlights of her holiday.The tents were so comfortable, the food superb and the group of people we were lucky enough to be with were all so nice, especially Sandra and John.

The photographs we brought home with us are a wonderful reminder of what a splendid time we had seeing all the animals. We sincerely thank you for taking so much time and effort to show us some of your lovely country and so much of its wildlife. We could not have wished for more. Even though we are very much novices, the photographic opportunities you afforded us, due to your knowledge and expertise, were truly remarkable and we were able to obtain high quality photographs that even experienced wildlife photographers within our group would be proud of.

If we can stand the thought of those two internal flights again who knows, we may consider returning to see you!

We were so lucky to have chosen your company out of the many in the BBC Wildlife magazine as we don't normally have such good fortune. We have no hesitation in recommending Freeman Safaris to anyone, including our family and friends who, like us, are of more mature years.

Teresa and Jennifer, November 2009

A big thank you for giving us a fantastic experience in Kenya, (your back yard), at home and in the bush.

We had the time of our lives day in and day out. We loved Samburu. The bird life there was incredible and it was great to see the Grevy's zebra, an incredibly striking animal. It is a wonderful place to camp.

We loved Lake Nakuru. It was great to see both black and white Rhino and the lake itself is of outstanding beauty. The Flamingo's are so pretty in pink; but we loved the Pelicans, big birds with huge characters, plus I (sandra) saw my first Leopard, a wonderful sight to see.

But nothing could beat the Masai Mara. Experiencing the anticipation of the migration after several teasing attempts was magical, its full of ooh's and aah's. We wanted every zebra and every wildebeest to make the crossing but loved it when the croc's struck…

We loved that most of the animals had young. How cute they all were, Zebra, Elephant, lion, Wildebeest, all the Gazelles, Warthog, Hippo, Giraffe, the list is endless. We experienced first hand a mother cheetah making a kill and calling for her siblings to enjoy her feast, a real insight on their daily lives. We loved the huge male lions sitting as if for portraits, many were sleeping and a few were making out with beautiful females. We saw young cubs of different ages, an absolute delight. Sighting the Serval cat at sunrise was a real bonus but finally seeing Leopards was the biggest thrill of all. Seeing a mother playing with her cubs, dad chilling out, and both feeding high up in the tree sure was a sight to behold.

The friends we made on our Safari was a real bonus, we would like to thank each and every one of you for making our trip more remarkable. Thanks again.

Sandra and John, September 2009.

To my Fellow Travellers

There is a saying that was famous in the days of the Old American West,

That you have seen it all when you have “seen the elephant.”

ON SEEING THE ELEPHANT

Dear fellow travelers,

What a ride we’ve had!

Yes, we’ve seen the elephant,

With David, John and Moses at the wheel.

We’ve faced Tembo and Simba

With not a scratch nor wound.

We’ve looked at buffalo, hippo, giraffe.

We never got tired of seeking.

Laughter and tears we’ve shared.

Kenyan nights with hyenas giggling,

Lions roaring all around.

Yes, friends, we’ve seen the elephant—

From the Mara, to Nakuru, to Samburu,

Sweet sounds and smells of Africa.

I’ll miss them and I’ll miss you all.

But I’ll return

And hope you do, too.

When once again, we’ll see the elephant.

Frances Taylor

I wanted to thank all at Freeman Safaris for making my safari such an awesome trip. It shouldn't have been a surprise as this is my third year with Freeman Safaris and you never fail to deliver. As a keen photographer you are able to deliver everything I could wish for, no one works harder on the Mara for their guests and that is what sets you apart. So a big thanks for all the effort from you and your team and all I can say is you will see me again soon.

Graeme, September 2nd 2008 See Graeme’s Photo Gallery

My Return to Kenya

If you’re a keen wildlife photographer then Africa acts like a powerful magnet.The diversity of the animals and birds, and their accessibility, is unparalleled. Nowhere is this more true than on the great East African plains and their surrounding habitats. After my first visit I promised myself I would return as often as I could, preferably annually, and I had managed to do so every year until 2007, when domestic circumstances prevented me from going pretty much anywhere. When a window opened to allow me to return to Kenya this summer I was like a kid waiting for Christmas. There was also some trepidation. Almost the only photography I’d done in the past year was of the abundant birds in my garden. Would that tenuous grasp I thought I’d attained on adequate photographic technique have deteriorated through lack of exercise? Could I wield the not inconsiderable bulk of a 500mm lens and three pound camera still, in the back of a bouncing Landrover? Only one way to find out!

I had three weeks to spend on safari - too short by about 49 weeks in any given year - but I was determined to exploit it fully. So. all my toys went into my bags and pockets and I embarked on the itinerary I’d decided with Brian, accompanied by my fellow photographer, Andy Diamond. First stop was Samburu, an arid, semi-desert landscape, clustered around a life-giving river. Previously, I’d had some great shots of birds, a leopard, and Samburu’s plentiful elephants; but the quality of Kenya’s parks is that the activity changes with time and the seasons.This time, the stars were cheetahs and lion cubs, as well as the ubiquitous elephants.The birds were there, too, but it was a subtly different blend of species this time. Happily, I could still lift the cameras; I’d not forgotten which buttons to press, or most of the lessons I’d half-learned over the years. I still can’t keep my horizons straight and I still chop off claws, paws, and hooves at the bottom of the frame. What was worrying was the fact that I couldn’t remember the birds’ names. Species identification has always been a somewhat hit and miss affair with me, but this was different. Was it just prolonged absence or rapidly advancing senility? Whatever, Samburu is still a great place to spend some time, probably the best place to photograph elephants, and just great for birds - even if you can’t remember their names.

Next stop, a couple of days at Lake Nakuru, and a chance to check out Brian’s new house. I remember my past experiences of Kenya’s roads, and I use that term only in the sense that they existed on the map if not in reality.Well, big surprise! Six hours of bone jarring discomfort has largely been replaced by a relatively smooth and pleasant ride. The same goes for the route from Nakuru almost as far as the Maasai Mara. At last, they’ve nearly finished the roads and they’re good roads, too. My absence in 2007 coincided with Kenya’s outbreak of localised insanity and resultant political reordering. Was this a consequence, I wondered, the roads money had actually been spent on the roads and not been siphoned off? Flying is still much quicker, but it’s not the sole option any more,it seems. Brian’s new house? I want one! A typical colonial villa with a magnificent reception room opening onto a covered verandah and the gardens. It’s also only 15 minutes from the park gates. Lake Nakuru was different this year, too. All of the famous flamingos were absent, away breeding at Lake Bogoria, but in their place were thousands of pelicans. Andy and I set out to photograph each pelican individually on day one. Then, just in case we’d missed any, we did it again on day two! We also had some surprises: a fleeting glimpse of a leopard, great views of Colobus monkeys and, finally, an African Black duck, up close, in the rain.

In 2006 I spent a whole month in the Maasai Mara, and it wasn’t enough. In 2008, I only had ten days; but ten quality days in the Mara is worth a month elsewhere. Firstly, the leopards were having a charm offensive. Leopards - you sit around for hours while they hide in trees or thick bush, only to be rewarded with a blurry shot of a tail disappearing into even thicker bush. Not this year! They’ve become exhibitionists, proudly marching around in full view like a bunch of cheetahs. No excuses for messed up shots this year. Generally, the Mara was Big Cat crazy; lions on tap, including lots of cubs running around being endearing; maybe not so many cheetahs, but the mother and six cubs from two years ago was never going to be topped. The predators were fat and happy because the migration was arriving early. I didn’t expect to see any river crossings but we got quality time in down on the bank as thousands of wildebeest and zebras tried to see if the grass really was greener on the other side. Fattest and happiest were the crocodiles. I’ve never seen so many crocs, and I’ve never seen so much crocodile/ungulate action. It can be harrowing and it’s not exactly family entertainment, but that’s nature.

One of the best things about being on safari is lying in your bed at night just listening to the noises. There’s the thunderous rumble of lions in the distance; the manic screeching of hyenas; a bass cacophony from the hippo pool; nightjars calling; the shuffling of hooves outside the tent as waterbuck or dik-diks crop the vegetation; all underpinned by the ceaseless chirping of myriad crickets. It’s magical and unforgettable. It’s almost criminal to have to fall asleep.

Sadly, my time ran out and I had to say my farewells and depart. There was a violent storm as we made our way to Ol Kiombo airstrip, Growling thunder; a wall of impenetrable rain; banks of low grey cloud. There was a real chance the flight would be cancelled, even though it’s an all weather strip. Maybe the Mara didn’t want me to go; she still had lots to show me. No, stop grasping at straws; there was the little Cessna, floating in, to whisk me off to Nairobi and the flight to London. No need to be sad: another 6,600 pictures to sift through, process, post on the net, print and fill up disk space. Some good, many bad, all trying to teach me something; the best of them bringing a sense of achievement.The muscles in my arms may be bulging from hefting cameras and lenses, while my stomach was bulging from the wonderful and copious table Brian provides - breathe in! Two years away and that absence had made the heart grow fonder. I’ll try not to stay away that long again”.

Pete, September 2008 For Pete’s safari images, see his Photo Gallery

Just to say many thanks for our excellent safari - can't believe how much we saw. Our photos are better than any we have managed before, mainly due to your positioning and the close proximity of the animals.

Emily and George, August 2nd 2008

It's been six weeks since we returned home to England after our fantastic honeymoon and we'd like to thank you and all of your staff for ensuring that we had such a great time on safari. We really enjoyed the safari and saw everything, and more than we hoped to (apart from the very minor disappointment of missing out on a leopard!!). The masai wedding ceremony was fantastic and everyone at home is amazed that we drank goat's blood. How are 'blue eyes' the baby cheetah and the three baby lions doing? Can you please say hello to everyone for us, in particular Stanley, David and Sammy at your house in Naivasha.

Lee and Sue, 11th October, 2007

"An incredibly memorable life changing experience, made all the more complete by all the extra steps that you took to customize, and personalize, a jam packed exhilarating ten days. If there were ever a unique challenge, the Patel family delivered it... an American contingent, very young children, vegetarian food, two couples celebrating anniversaries and needless to say, a unique tailor made itinerary. Our expectations were probably unduly high (as exemplified by a wine request list that was ‘unusual’, as Brian put it), but they were more than met, and 'then some'."

The Patel family, 2006

"Every minute of very day was used to maximum effect; this is no rest cure! On each day Brian seemed to have some strange sense of where the best viewing would be. Hard, exciting work during the day was tempered by idyllic evenings of G & Ts by the fire followed by excellent meals with the night sounds of Africa all around. After the hot showers, convenient layout of the large tents and comfortable beds of Brian’s camps in the bush, I really don’t think I can be bothered with hotels any more! To have that much comfort and attention in such remote and unspoiled country was a privilege indeed.

Brian demonstrated immediately that his primary interest was in ensuring not only that we, as a group, should be given the best possible wildlife viewing and photo opportunities, but that each individual should have an equal voice in preferred subjects. He is seemingly indefatigable and will spend however long it takes to get the best view, the right angle and the best light. He understands the needs of the photographer, has a keen interest in the subject and constantly goes out of his way to make sure everyone is satisfied."

Andy, September 2004

"Jambo sana Brian, I suppose you could say life is getting back to normal, but I am still raving to everyone I know about my safari!

The Mara

The vastness of the grassland plains took us by surprise, a sea of beautiful golds and greens. Forget "Big Cat Diary", this was the real thing, and we felt very lucky to be part of it. Brian and chief spotter Barisa, what a team !! They never stopped working from morning till night and kept putting us in superb positions. Freeman safaris promises an "up front & personal" viewing experience and that's exactly what we got. With experience of over a dozen previous safari trips between us, we've seen most things, but in this Park we were taken to new levels. So many wonderful bonuses; watching, at close range, lions mating was unforgettable, words cannot describe it. A huge variety of wildlife, even without the Migration.

Nakuru

Thousands upon thousands of beautiful flamingos and pelicans as far as the eye can see. Difficult to know where next to point one's camera. And as for Rhinos, this was HQ ! Black & White in all directions, we've never seen so many. Another bonus here; thanks to Brian's perseverance and positioning we witnessed up close the once in a lifetime spectacle of two Black Rhino clashing violently. We even managed to end the day with the classic "leopard up a tree" sighting, superb!

Camp Life

We didn't quite know what to expect, but this has set a new standard as far as we are concerned. If your idea of a perfect holiday is not having to lift a finger, then this is it. Nothing, repeat nothing was too much trouble. Spacious and comfortable tents made the going easy, and yes it's absolutely true, the temperature of the shower was always spot on. How do they do that?! At the end of a good day's safari, teas and coffees upon arrival in camp were most welcome, and the standard of the meals easily matched that of many top hotels (and we'd like to see Gordon Ramsay & Jamie Oliver try it with a charcoal oven ...). Tracy is so fussy where meat is concerned but had no complaints at all, and her large (for a slim thing) appetite was more than satisfied, returning home several pounds heavier! Each Camp was beautifully situated, as far away from lodge life as you can imagine, but within easy reach of the parks.

General

Having previous safari experience, we knew some of what to expect, but this trip really went the extra mile. I have never met a person who knows the Bush as well as Brian does and what a fabulous team of staff he has. He can be proud of them all and how he maintains such a smooth running operation. Brian also went to great trouble to book us a Hot Air Balloon flight, which we really wanted to include in our itinerary, and proved to be another fantastic event during our stay. We just can't wait to return to Kenya and dissolve into a different world with our new rafiki, leaving the hassle of normal everyday life a long way behind. A truly wonderful, wonderful holiday. Speak to you soon, Kwaheri sasa Tracy & John."

Tracy and John, July 2004 See John’s Photo Gallery

"We haven't been back to Africa since [we went with you] as we knew there was no way of emulating the safari you arranged for us... Many is the time I dream of sitting beside the camp fire enjoying a cold Tusker beer after a dusty day wildlife watching with the stars above seemingly so close that you could reach out and touch them. There is nothing to match the sights, sounds and smells of the African bush."

Jill, August 2002

"I know elephants are my favourite, but how did you organise the elephant show every lunch?"

David, February 2001

"Having been to Kenya a few times previously on tourist safaris which were enjoyable, we wanted our last safari, in 1997, to be something different. We saw an advertisement for Brian's company which appeared to fulfil our needs. It was going to be our last trip to Kenya, so we wanted it to be completely different, and different it was!

It wasn't like going away with a tour company, it was as if we'd known Brian for years and like being with friends. The experience of staying in the bush was incomparable, no racing back for 9 o'clock breakfast (like you would if you were staying in a lodge), and the whole safari was built around little stories, not just listing animals and moving on, but following things through to the end, For example watching a leopard doing very little for two hours but then following her, seeing her hunt and feed her cub. All the camp sites were immaculate and the food was superb. Needless to say, it did not turn out to be our last safari and in 2001 we returned [to Kenya] with Brian. We challenged him to show us something different and this challenge was met and the safari exceeded all our expectations! We look forward to our next last safari!"

Tony and Cathy, November 2002

"I am scared of bees, wasps, and any flying insect to the extent that I am forever ducking and diving in an English garden, so I never thought I would be able to go to Kenya. However, I took the plunge and went on a safari with Brian and I had the time of my life! Once I was there my fears did not cross my mind and I enjoyed every single minute. I was not bitten once and the tents were completely dudu (Swahili for insects and mosquitoes) proof. I can't wait to go back and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone."

Caroline, July 2002

"For a truly memorable and lifetime Kenyan safari experience, we whole heartedly recommend Brian Freeman and his team without any reservation whatsoever. Personal care afforded was absolute and, photographically, we were presented with unimaginable closeup views of wildlife and village life that will stay with us forever. The holiday exceeded all our expectations, a holiday we will repeat."

Derek and Mary, September 2001

"The experience of staying in the bush was incomparable, no racing back for 9 o'clock breakfast (like you would if you were staying in a lodge), and the whole safari was built around little stories, not just listing animals and moving on, but following things through to the end, For example watching a leopard doing very little for two hours but then following her, seeing her hunt and feed her cub."

Tony and Cathy