I have recently returned from another exciting trip to the Masai Mara, where I enjoyed good weather and great game viewing. For the first time in many years I saw wild dogs in the Mara. Let’s hope this is the start of more frequent sightings!  Attached are a few images from the trip, together with a link to more.

It was great to be able to spend some quality time with my good friend and guide Paul Kirui. There is no one with a more comprehensive knowledge of the Masai Mara and his ability to seek out the wildlife, especially the elusive leopard, is second to none. Congratulations are also in order, as Paul has recently been named one of Africa’s top 25 guides, along with Andrew “Stretch” Ferreira of Zimbabwe. I spent some time walking in the bush with Stretch, who is known as the “elephant whisperer” of Mana Pools, Zimbabwe. We walked close-up to bull elephants and prides of lion, which has to be one of the most amazing things I have experienced. There are few people I’d have trusted to get me so close on foot!  Click on here for the full article.

Apart from being my dear friend and guide, Paul Kirui is also involved in another aspect of my life, as he is the Kenya Chairman of my charity, Hoopers Africa Trust, which educates vulnerable and underprivileged girls in Kenya. In January 2014 our 100th girl will enter the scheme. If you are interested in learning more about the charity, please visit the website: http://hoopersafricatrust.org

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

To view more more images from my latest trip click here