Massai to Lake Naivasha _ Saturday 16th Jan

We packed up early and headed out at 8am to do a couple hours of game driving around the park trying to find some lions however we didn't have any luck but came across a lazy leopard in a tree just before driving out of the park which was very exciting - great spotting by Jan.  

Got to the exit gate of Massai Mara and were greeted by the posse of gift sellers. After not getting any interest from us on the many jewellery and carvings they then moved to asking Jo to pay for a picture of them . Jo's bargaining skills kicked in after they started at $30 for a picture which quickly reduced to $2.50 within about 2 minutes .

Got out safety and then headed off for the 2 hour drive to Narok to refuel and some lunch which consisted of a 500ml beer for me whilst beating off the locals trying to flog me CD's and various souvenirs .

Quite a bit of rain on the way and slow progress with all the trucks coming and going on the main highway to Uganda. Stopped at the main supermarket to stock up on the main essentials ( ie beer,OJ,wine, local Gin for Joey) and then arrived into Lake Naivasha about 3 pm in amongst some light rain to set up . Best part was I got some ice from the supermarket so all set for a few V and OJ's tonight .

Lake Naivasha is the highest elevation of the Rift Valley at 1884 metres and has an area of approx 139 kms with an average depth of 6 metres .  The lake has over 400 species of birds and a big population of hippos so no swimming in the lake . Luckily the rain held off so we enjoyed another great meal by Amanda with lots of V and OJ and some music by Aussie bands from my boom box.

The other best thing about our own personal tour is that it is very, very quite on the tourist count in all the parks  at the moment so you don't feel over crowded or rushed . Looking forward to a half day excursion to the Green Crater in the morning.