East Africa is a nebullous term that ignores much of what is east about Africa, and refers instead to four countries, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. Despite the geographic confusion, one thing is clear, however. This is classic Africa, the land of Hemingway, big game, and Kilimanjaro (in the distance). This is where the European presence in Africa began, 200 years ago, in a quest for souls, ivory, and trophies. It is the latter that evolved into the modern day photographic safari.

Concepts such as adventure travel and ecotourism were born, like us. in East Africa. For most of us a big game safari is the essence of adventure, whether in a Land Rover or in our dreams. The guide books for East Africa read like a Who's Who of exotic destinations: the Serengeti Plains, the Masai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Samburu to name a few. The possibilities for a "dream come true" experience are endless.

And nowhere on earth are there more conservation issues for the modern day "eco-warrior" to confront than in Africa, east or otherwise. Indeed the plight of Africa's charismatic big game has done as much as anything to mobilize world opinion and action in the cause of endangered species. Every Western pilgrim who journeys to Africa gives Africans one more reason to protect their priceless wildlife heritage.

One of the world's most iconic destinations, the savannas of East Africa reveal a new look with each dawn. The excitement is palpable. The sounds, the sights, the smells-everything about Africa-gets into your soul. I will always return.