ULTIMATE ADVENTURE WITH BUSH FAMILIES top
- Stay in an exclusive bush home offering in-depth, pleasurable adventure and intimate, all-inclusive service at the Lewa Conservancy and Loldia House..
- Learn about conservation at the Giraffe Center with the opportunity of hand-feeding the remnants of the Rothschild Giraffe..
- View rare northern species of wildlife in Samburu as you enjoy the comfort of a traditional tent experience..
- Game viewing in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, with overnight in a luxury tent at Tortilis Camp..
- Game walk with a naturalist at Sweetwaters in the day and later night-game drive.
Table of Contents |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Safari Costs |
What Safari Includes? |
Stay in an exclusive bush home offering in depth, pleasure, adventure and intimate all-inclusive service at the Lewa Conservancy and Loldia House.
Learn about conservation at the Giraffe Centre with the opportunity of hand-feeding the remnants of the Rothschild Giraffe.
View rare northern species of wildlife in Samburu as you enjoy the comfort of a traditional tent experience.
Game viewing in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, with overnight in a luxury tent at Tortilis Camp.
Game walk with a naturalist at Sweetwaters in the day and later night-game drive.
You will arrive in Nairobi and after airport formalities, we shall transfer you to the legendary Norfolk Hotel, the oldest hotel in Kenya built in 1904. Depending on your flight time, we shall take you on a sightseeing tour of the city, which includes shopping for your safari suit from one of the city center shops. Or if you arrive at night, you will then have your overnight. NORFOLK HOTEL (B)
You will start your safari by driving South to the Tsavo West National Park . You will stay at Finch Hatton Camp, of Out of Africa film fame, one of the most luxurious tented facilities in Kenya . Mzima Springs and the Chaimu Lava Flow and the varied species of flora and fauna will be a great experience not to be missed. Your meals and overnight will be at the FINCH HATTON TENTED CAMP (B,L,D).
DAY 3, 4:
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK |
You will travel to Amboseli, which is famous for its spectacular sights of game and the towering profile of Mt. Kilimanjaro . This park is home to over 1,000 elephants, the black rhinoceros, herds of zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, buffalo and many predators. Your stay under canvas for the next two nights will be in an exclusive tented camp on the edge of Amboseli Park from where you can see for miles across the plains into Tanzania as far as Mt. Meru . Your guide will be with you all the time for game drives and every other assistance you may require. TORTILIS CAMP (B,L,D).
DAY 5, 6:
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE |
You will fly to the semi-arid region of Samburu, the place for rare game not seen on your tour so far. They include the reticulated giraffe, the Beisa oryx, the Somali ostrich, the Grevy zebra, the gerenuk and other species of wildlife adapted to living in this sub-Saharan Desert. The park is named after the Samburu, the cousins of the Maasai, living harmoniously with this wild game. At the end of your game drives, you will return to your superbly appointed tents at the SAMBURU INTREPIDS CLUB (B,L,D).
DAY 7, 8:
LEWA CONSERVANCYDAY; SWEETWATERS |
You will extend your stay in this semi-arid part of Kenya and proceed to Lewa Downs Conservancy. This is a game ranch with most of the famous game and the setting is designed to provide the true safari experience. Staying in comfort, romance and style are the captivating features of this home. Meals and game drives, on an all-inclusive basis, are provided. WILDERNESS TRAILS/LERAI CAMP. On this morning we shall go to the exquisite Sweetwaters Tented Camp in the secluded heart of the Ol Pejeta Game Ranch. Here the Jane Goodall Institute manages a chimpanzee sanctuary. The camp is located next to a watering hole with every opportunity of photographing a host of plains game. A night game drive will be a total adventure. The luxuriously appointed tents are complete with en suite facilities providing every convenience.
SWEETWATERS TENTED CAMP (B.L.D).
We shall drive to the floor of the Rift Valley, passing through the Nyahururu Falls to Lake Naivasha . This is a fresh-water lake, unlike most of the other Rift Valley lakes. Various species of birds can be seen in this lake. Spend the afternoon exploring the bounty in and around the lake. OLERAI HOUSE.
DAY 11, 12, 13:
MASAI MARA |
Spend the morning at leisure and then drive to Nairobi for your afternoon flight to the Masai Mara, the park described by many as the jewel of safari expeditions. This is the most popular national park in Kenya , owing to its abundance of game. Your stay will be at the Mara Intrepids Club. This is an upscale accommodation providing modern amenities. During your game drives you will be able to see the black-maned lion and cheetah. The enormity of the Mara and its abundance of wildlife offer endless opportunity for excitement. Optional activities include hot-air balloon flights, a night game drive, etc. MARA INTREPIDS CLUB (B,L,D).
You will depart the Masai Mara after breakfast and fly over the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi . We shall meet you and transfer you to the Norfolk Hotel. Later we shall take you on a sightseeing tour, which includes shopping, before we take you for dinner at the Carnivore Restaurant. Return for overnight. NORFORLK HOTEL (L).
KENYA-TANZANIA LANDMARKS top
14 days of combining the "Highlights" of East Africa, the Safari country for dream-come-true travellers, honeymooners, adventure seekers.
Table of Contents |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Safari Costs |
What Safari Includes? |
Stay on your first Day at the legendary Norfolk Hotel. Enjoy the scenic landscape and the game from the terrace of the first rustic game lodge in Kenya - Kilaguni Lodge.
View the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa from Amboseli.
Descend 2000 feet into the Ngorongoro Crater - an unspoiled natural habitat for thousands of animals.
Stay at the world famous Mt. Kenya Safari Club, located at the foot of Mt. Kenya. Overfly the scenic Great Rift Valley.
Visit the jewel of safari expedition - the Maasai Mara.
Karibu (Welcome in Kiswahili) is the word to greet you upon arrival at Nairobi International Airport . You are met by a Lindberg Holidays representative who will escort you to that gracious colonial landmark, the Norfolk Hotel. This day also includes a helpful safari briefing by our representative. Introductory tour of the city's highlights.
Overnight NORFOLK HOTEL.
DAY 2, 3:
KILAGUNI TSAVO WEST |
Drive South on the main East African highway - Mombasa Road- to the largest game sanctuary, the Tsavo National Park . It's the most ideal place for photography on account of its unlimited sunlight and the expansive Yatta Plateau and Shetani Lava Flow.
Your lunch and other meals for these days are reserved at the first lodge to be built facing a watering hole where animals come to drink and bathe. Mzima Springs, a natural spring oozing out after 40 kilometers of underground flow, is a natural wonder. You will view underwater life through an observatory water tank.
The Shetani Lava Flow is another mystery worth a visit in this park.
KILAGUNI LODGE.
After a breakfast drive through the Shetani Lava Flow into Amboseli National Park , one of the most spectacular sights in Africa . We arrive at the Amboseli Serena Lodge for lunch. Later in the afternoon explore this ecosystem “place of water”, the translation of the name Amboseli in the local Maasai language. With large herds of elephants, other plains game and the towering profile of Mt. Kilimanjaro rising 19,340 feet above the plains in the background. The park has a wealth of animals and it is Kenya 's biosphere reserve. All meals and overnights will be at AMBOSELI SERENA LODGE.
DAY 6 & 7
NGORONGORO CRATER |
Depart after breakfast to the Kenya-Tanzania border point - Namanga. After the Customs formalities you will join our Tanzania counterpart for a drive to Arusha for lunch. Later drive to the brim of a wildlife-filled caldera - the Ngorongoro Crater - for overnight at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge. For two days you will be enjoying this self-contained wildlife haven packed with nearly every mammal species. Sights of the rare black rhino, lion and the hyena. A full day will be spent roaming in 4WD vehicles. NGORONGORO SERENA LODGE.
After breakfast drive back to Arusha and on to Kilimanjaro Airport to catch your flight to Nairobi . Upon arrival you will be escorted to the Giraffe Centre and the Karen Blixen Museum for the afternoon. OVERNIGHT NORFOLK HOTEL.
Drive North through the Kikuyu farmlands, with a brief visit to the biggest open-air market. This day will be spent at Mt. Lodge , a game outlook lodge in the Mt. Kenya Forest . A brief breathtaking bush walk around the outskirts of the lodge can be organized.
Game viewing will be from the balcony of your room facing the floodlit waterhole.
MT. LODGE OR TREE TOPS OR THE ARK.
DAY 10
MT. KENYA SAFARI CLUB |
Drive further North, and, after crossing the Equator, you come to the prestigious former home of the actor William Holden for lunch. The club offers a blend of comfort, relaxation and luxuries.
MT. KENYA SAFARI CLUB.
DAY 11, 12, 13:
MASAI MARA |
After breakfast you will be transferred to the Nanyuki Airstrip for your flight across the Aberdare Ranges and the Rift Valley to Kenya 's premier game reserve - the Masai Mara. This is the most popular game reserve for its abundance of game. It also offers a chance to see the rich-cultured Maasai people who co-exist with the wild game harmoniously. Your stay will be in the park's oldest lodge - KEEKOROK LODGE.
Early morning game drive before breakfast in this game studded game park. After breakfast you will be taken to the airstrip to catch your flight to Nairobi . Arrive and transfer to the Norfolk for your day rooms. Later shopping in the city. Evening transfer to Carnivore Restaurant for your farewell dinner, before your transport to the airport for your homebound flight.
KEEN ON KENYA SAFARI top
A Sponsored Customised safari for friends and members of Assisi Animal Foundation.The shorter version of Greater African Adventure.
Table of Contents |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Safari Costs |
What Safari Includes? |
The following sponsored programme has been designed to provide a wide overview and variety of wildlife habitats. The destinations and lodgings are selected for quality, comfort and opportunity to view some of the world's last undisturbed and incredibly beautiful areas. It is a treasure of magnificent animals and exciting culture. It is a true odyssey of adventure, romance and unforgettable experiences.
DAY 1:
GRAND REGENCY HOTEL |
Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and as soon as entry formalities are complete, we head into Nairobi for the remainder of the day and overnight at the Grand Regency, Nairobi's jewel among luxury hotels. The prestigious Regency will please you with its marble staircases, glass elevators and elegant appointments and varied shopping in its arcade of upscale shops.
DAY 2, 3:
GRAND REGENCY HOTEL |
While you enjoy an indulgent breakfast, the safari van is loaded and the adventure begins! Driving through Nairobi, you will be impressed by the contrasts of old and new in this cosmopolitan city. Continuing south, we head into famed Tsavo Territory. This park is one of the largest on the continent and will unfold numerous and wonderful wildlife sightings. We continue to the famous Kilaguni, one of East Africa's oldest and best-loved safari destinations. On lovely flowing grounds, the accommodations all have a private balcony or terrace facing the lit night-watering holes that bring a constantly changing parade of wildlife. Late at night you may hear the muffled roar of the lion in the bush, awaiting his turn to drink, often after the elephant herds have ambled away. The dining room, bar and viewing areas all face these watering holes and offer spectacular views of the wildly beautiful Chyulu Hills, with a changing backdrop from misty mornings to purple dusk against the unique and fiery red earth of the area. After a night of sound sleep in sparkling clean air (you'll catch your breath when you see the celestial display of the southern hemisphere), you'll be up early to catch a cup of steaming coffee or tea before the excitement of a sunrise on our first morning game run. A large breakfast waits for us on our return, with time to watch the gatherings at the watering hole. Following lunch we head to Mzima Springs, where jungle-like vegetation surrounds the crystal springs here that pump out five million gallons of clear cool water… enough to serve the city of Mombasa 's drinking water needs. Hippos and crocs enjoy the glassy pools and cool banks along with countless monkeys and baboons. Here we can leave the vans and, in the company of armed, experienced game wardens, ready to answer your questions, we'll walk through this green paradise. On the way back, an African sunset may set the mood for a real "sundowner" before dinner.
DAY 4, 5:
INDIAN OCEAN BEACH CLUB |
Heading now toward the Indian Ocean, the change in setting is obvious as the grasslands give way to the appearance of topical vegetation nearing Mombasa . Home for the next two nights will be the exotic Indian Ocean Beach Club, right on the ocean with Arab style white bungalows facing the ocean with a patio or balcony. Here you can enjoy the white powder beaches, never too crowded, or the lovely hotel pool, as you wish. You can also arrange for optional deep-sea fishing, island hopping, snorkeling from a traditional dhow, or just "kick-back" and enjoy the hotels amenities and relaxing atmosphere. You might prefer touring Mombasa with its heavy Arab influence, Fort Jesus , the reminder of Portuguese influence and power, Mombasa 's Old Town with its fascinating shops and restaurants of virtually every ethnic background represented in this ancient and romantic seaport.
A morning flight return to Nairobi , where our driver waits, to head north to the cool Aberdare Mountains , a stark and briskly refreshing contrast to the tropical setting just enjoyed. Spending the night at the Mountain Lodge is a very different experience. There are three "tree hotels" in Central Kenya and the Mountain Lodge is the finest, with each room featuring private bath and viewing balcony overlooking the watering holes drawing the mountain residents to drink day and night under lights. There are resident elephants, many grazing ungulates and the cantankerous Cape buffalo. There are great public viewing areas behind the bar, on the roof and a small concrete bunker, reached via a concrete tunnel via the lowest level of the lodge. This site makes for some great close-up photos and viewing. Days here are definitely cooler and, for the night's cold, be prepared with warm clothing.
DAY 7, 8:
SAMBURU INTREPIDS CLUB |
Off now to the northern frontier district. The topography again shows a dramatic change becoming warmer and arid, we come to Archer's Post, a Springs Reserve. Settling into the Samburu Intrepids Club on the Ewaso Nyiro River , you enjoy the view of the river from your luxury tent built on a platform and under thatched cover to keep it cool. The tents have very unexpected comforts, including a large en suite bath with double vanity sinks, flushing toilet, shower and electricity during certain hours of the day and for a fact here you can see much! Elephant, cheetah, Cape buffalo, giraffe, myriad birds, the cats and some species seen only here are yours for the viewing. Even the elusive leopard is spotted here.
DAY 9:
MOUNT KENYA SAFARI CLUB |
From tents on the river to one of 20 of the world's finest resorts — the elegant Mt. Kenya Safari Club of Nanyuki, set right on the Equator and looking at the magnificent snowcapped Mt. Kenya . The Club is the dream and work of the late actor William Holden, whose films included 1974's The Towering Inferno . It boasts a heated pool, manicured gardens and lawns with storks. There are many optional activities such as horseback riding, bowling, golf, tennis, spa treatments and nature walks, great boutiques and a gallery. You'll enjoy luxurious dining tonight and return to your room with a fire set cozily in the fireplace for your comfort. Evenings are "casually elegant", no jeans or shorts. Until 1995, gentlemen were required to wear jacket and tie and ladies wore skirts. That has been relaxed, but just a bit, you'll find the change of pace refreshing
DAY 10:
LAKE NAKURU LODGE |
Today, the destination is famed Lake Nakuru . The large soda lake is ringed by picturesque hills giving a wonderful view of the whole expanse of the lake and shores, which draw many aquatic birds along with the countless flamingos, whose flight makes a pink cloud against blue water. This is probably the world's most famous area for this dramatic gathering of birds, though it offers other wildlife as well. The Lake Nakuru Lodge is home base during this visit.
DAY 11, 12, 13:
MARA SOPA LODGE |
The safari now takes you to the legendary Masai Mara. For most experienced safari participants this is the jewel and highlight of the Kenyan experience. You'll be enchanted by the diversity of animals, and topography. In late spring, the grazers cross the river bordering Tanzania and Kenya and travel north to the Masai Mara for the green grasses. Of course, the predators follow. Here there are sightings of lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, hyena, warthog, wildebeest, zebra, and smaller creatures too. Home will be the Mara Sopa Lodge for a memorable series of game runs and happy evenings.
Returning today to Nairobi , a day room is ready as a courtesy at the lovely Grand Regency again. You have a chance to organize for the trip, do some last time shopping or sightseeing, and get ready for the farewell dinner later before departure to the international airport and the flights home. Bon Voyage … until your next visit. We are quite sure this wonderful experience will make you want to return to the mystery, excitement and ever changing beauty that is Kenya ! (Please Note: If a change in sequence, destination or lodging becomes necessary for unforeseen circumstances, conditions, or acts of nature, substitution will be of equal or similar quality.)
Land Cost:
$3,313 Per Person Sharing a double room
$740 Single Room Supplement
· Accommodation with 3 meals while on Safari
· 2 meals in the Coast and breakfast in Nairobi
· Transport in specially built tour vans with pop-up roofs, with guaranteed seats.
· Domestic flights
· Park entrance fees
· Services of English speaking driver/guides
· Airport transfers
· Welcome Safari kit during safari orientation
· Farewell dinner
· Flying Doctor Membership (Optional)
· Donation to East African Wildlife Society (EAWL) and Assisi Animal Foundation (AAF)
EXCLUDED
· Airport departure taxes on international flights
· Passport, Visas, Travel Insurance
· Items of a personal nature like beverages, etc.
· Tips
THE GREAT AFRICAN ADVENTURE SAFARI top
Best suited for nature lovers, in-depth adventure enthusiasts, and photographic opportunities ---- simply the Greatest African Adventure, "A holiday of a lifetime" as described by a frequent visitor. Because of its uniqueness, repeat visits are many. A customized Safari for friends and members of the Assisi Animal Foundation.
Table of Contents |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Safari Costs |
What Safari Includes? |
The following itinerary has been designed to provide a wide overview and variety of wildlife habitats. The destinations and lodgings are selected for quality, comfort and opportunity to view some of the world's last undisturbed and most incredibly beautiful areas. Its treasure of magnificent animals and exciting culture provides a true odyssey of adventure, romance and an unforgettable experience.
Day 1:
On arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport , you are met by our Kenyan associates who will drive us to the Grand Regency Hotel for our first night's stay on African soil. Your choice of airline and your time of arrival will determine your activities for the rest of the day, which is unstructured. If you get in early, you may wish to shop, see the city or just enjoy the Regency's many amenities or choose to get some rest for the early start of safari the next day.
Day 2, 3:
The day starts early with a bountiful breakfast at the hotel while our drivers pack and prepare the safari vans. We head off, and while crossing Nairobi , see brilliant contrasts of old and very new. On leaving the city, wildlife may possibly be seen even in view of Nairobi 's skyline….always a surprise. We proceed past the edges of the Ngong Hills of Out of Africa fame, continue past the Maparasha Hills and arrive at the border town of Namanga . This tiny town is reminiscent of a 40's film, with a stoic Bogart and intrigue awaiting in smoke-filled rooms. We go through border formalities, change to vehicles of our Tanzanian hosts and proceed to Arusha, watch to catch a glimpse of Mt. Kilimanjaro if the clouds allow. We stop for lunch at Arusha's Mount Meru Hotel and continue to Ngorongoro Crater and the Wildlife Lodge, perched on the edge of the crater. Next morning, it will be cold. The misty drive down into the crater itself is a surreal experience in fog with trees and lush green vegetation hung in moss and vines. This is the largest unbroken caldera on earth, large enough to be seen from space. En route we may encounter proud Maasai herding their precious cattle. This unusual habitat is home to elephants, rhinos, zebras, lions, hyenas, foxes, countless birds and more. We'll picnic in the crater and continue with exploration until the sun's descent brings purple and pink splashing onto the surrounding crater sides. The descent and ascent to the crater rim are breathtaking experiences. NGORONGORO WILDLIFE LODGE.
Day 4, 5:
Again, an early and hearty breakfast before driving out once again into the mists shrouding the crater rim. As we level off from high ground, the change in setting is dramatic. We stop at Olduvai Gorge , the site where the Leakeys made their startling discoveries on the origins of man. Seeing this site is a memorable experience. Approaching the gate to the Serengeti, one is overwhelmed by a seemingly unending expanse of barren rocky vistas. In Swahili Serengeti means “endless plain”. It's difficult to understand how the wildlife we encounter can survive in this harsh environment. En route, the landscape changes character with the appearance of rocky outcropping, kopjes, which are often the napping places of magnificent prides of lion, or a cheetah. We'll spend two nights at the unusual Lobo Lodge in the heart of the Serengeti. This lodge was built into and around huge boulders and is a most unusual starting and finishing point for our game runs into the Serengeti. A typical day on Safari starts with a fast cup of coffee or tea and heading into the bush to experience the activity at sun-up. Later, returning to the lodge for a big breakfast exploring the compound, relaxing, perhaps some swimming, talking to a resident game warden, etc., followed by lunch and an afternoon game run.
Day 6
Another morning drive through the legendary Serengeti, heading to Lake Manyara . This is a small area, but marked by 5 very distinct biospheres, and offering remarkable diversity for its size. The area is famous for its black-maned tree-climbing lions. Following lunch at the Lake Manyara Hotel, we may be fortunate enough to spot one of these magnificent fellows while we explore. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, perched on an escarpment of the Rift Valley with a wonderful view.
Day 7, 8:
The next destination is back in Kenya . Heading towards the border we might again see Mt. Kilimanjaro, if conditions are right. Once more at the border, a change back to Kenyan vehicles and we proceed to Tsavo West. The Tsavo Park system is one of the largest on the continent. It gained considerable focus as the setting for a recent film starring Michael Douglas, The Ghost and the Darkness , which chronicled the building of the rail line from Mombasa to Nairobi . The project was beleaguered by constant attack by man-eating lions, and the rail gained the nickname Lunatic Express, with most calling the builders mad for persisting in finishing the rail line. Later, we'll use this same rail line returning to Nairobi . While in Tsavo West our base will be the Kilaguni incomparable views of the Chyulu Hills that turn deep purple at sunset against a fiery ocher earth. The lodge is stretched in a line of rooms, each having its own terrace or balcony facing the watering holes that are lit at night so that you may listen to and watch a changing parade of wildlife coming to drink. There's nothing like hearing a lion's rumbled roar in the still African night. The next morning, grab your hot coffee or tea and biscuit, and bundle into your van for another run at dawn in a beautiful area. During this stay, you'll visit Mzima Springs, a stunning area of crystal springs and pool, surrounded by lush green. The water runs deep underground through volcanic deposits filtering more than 5 million gallons daily. Experienced game guards will lead you through this area and answer your questions about the resident hippos, crocs and ever-present macaque monkeys. Occasionally the return home is delayed a bit as a parade of hundreds of baboons ramble across the road. They come to the springs at night to nest in the trees. KILAGUNI LODGE.
Day 9, 10:
Our next destination is not distant, and still in Tsavo, but you'll be amazed at the difference in topography. The area is mountainous and fairly rugged. We'll be staying at Ngulia Lodge, which also features a watering hole in unusual proximity to the dining area and viewing terrace. A leopard visit is common at night and exciting to see. The lodge is small, usually quiet and offers opportunity for a relaxing day at the pool or a game run in the hills. NGULIA LODGE. We head East to the Shimba Hills, the home of the elusive and unusual Sable Antelope. These hills are the only habitat in Kenya for this animal and we'll see it as we drive into the hills to the very unusual lodge. The lodge is the only tree house on Kenya 's Coast, and it is set in a tiny rain forest. The site is charming and very restful, and evenings can be enjoyed with an optional evening drive and a real "sundowner". SHIMBA HILLS LODGE
Day 11, 12, 13:
White powder beaches call us toward the Indian Ocean . Arriving in the ancient city of Mombasa , we take the ferry crossing and continue to Diani Beach and Indian Ocean Beach Club right on the Indian Ocean . Clusters of white Arab-style cottages, each with a balcony or terrace looking at the Indian Ocean with its wonderful white beach and warm water. Wonderful walks along the ocean or basking at the pool…..a difficult choice. You may also want to indulge in some of the optional activities such as touring Old Mombasa with it's heavy Arab influence and Fort Jesus , built centuries ago to protect the Portuguese hold on the city and its rich trade. Lunches are not part of your program here simply because there is so much activity, it's been more fun to suit your own interests. Of course, if you prefer, there's no need to leave Club at all just kick back, enjoy the hotel amenities, different dining choices, swimming and relax.
Day 14
We leave the Beach Club in late afternoon to board the overnight train to Nairobi . Yes, this is the same Lunatic Express talked about earlier. TRAIN. This is not a sleek, air-conditioned state-of-the-art transport. It is a sentimental journey. It is of another time, conjuring up visions of international adventure and mysterious characters. We travel in First Class compartments, whose seats are transformed into upper and lower bunks while we're at dinner. This train admittedly needs some cosmetics and modernizing, but no one has taken this trip and not enjoyed the experience of its character.
Day 15
Being met at the train station in Nairobi by our Kenyan drivers again, the Safari heads North to the Aberdare Mountains . This is a very cool, mountainous setting. There are 3 tree hotels in Central Kenya, and Mt. Lodge is considered the finest. Each room has a private bath, which is not the case in other tree hotels. There are wonderful public areas for viewing the game drinking, including a bunker reached through a lit concrete tunnel from the lowest level of the lodge. This is great for some really up-close-and-personal photos of the animals. If you wish to see a particular animal that is known to frequent the watering holes, the game warden will knock at your door to let you know if they come in. Here again, warm clothing is a MUST.
Day 16, 17, 18
Traveling North again to the Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves, we settle at the Samburu Intrepids Camp for the next few nights. Another stunning contrast in terrain is evident as we travel there through the warming and rugged country of the northern frontier district. Lodgings here are in tents ranged along the Ewaso Nyiro River . Though the area is very arid, the river affords considerable greenery and attracts species found nowhere else, including Grevy's Zebra, the reticulated giraffe and the beautiful gerenuk. These are additional to elephant, the grazers, and the cats. Birds are countless and amazing! Our destination is a favorite. The tents are luxurious, each with its en suite bath containing double vanity sinks, flushing toilet and shower. The tents are on raised platforms under thatched roofs to keep them cool and comfortable. Each overlooks the river from its own porch and the entire compound is raised on platforms and under roof. The breakfasts and lunches are taken al fresco, and dinner under the thatched roof of the dining room. If you stay late after dinner, you may catch sight of the beautiful small genet that often comes to the dining area for tidbits! There is a pool, a bar and comfortable sitting areas. There are optional camel treks across the river to a very small Samburu village, bush breakfasts, nature walks and, sometimes, river rafting. This is an excellent area to see the Big Five and some unusual species from a wonderful setting where attentive service and excellent food are the norm.
Day 19, 20
Lewa Downs Ranch is a private holding of 45,000 acres. We will stay in the bandas or cottages, furnished in comfortable, rustic style. These are clustered near the family home, in fact one guest room is in the main house itself. There is also a charming banda nick-named B.B.C, which was built especially for extra space for members of a BBC crew when it came to film a TV special at Lewa Downs. The bandas are all romantic hideaways. Guest accommodation here is very limited… part of its charm. We may dine with the family on a small terrace overlooking a ravine. The food is excellent! After dinner we congregate around a campfire with coffee, or take a night drive bundled up against the night chill to try to spot the resident nocturnal leopards. Another wonderful treat is horseback riding at dawn in the bush with a resident guide. Riding slowly and quietly you can come close enough to a giraffe to almost touch it. This is a wonderful experience for the expert or novice, since all the horses are gentle, well-trained and comfortable with the wildlife. Lewa also contains a 10,000-acre rhino sanctuary and is home also to elephant, leopard, cheetah, giraffe and more. Depending on limited guest space and the size of our group, we may have to double up here for accommodation, but it's well worth the experience and will remind you of dorm days. LEWA WILDERNESS TRAILS.
Day 21, 22:
Again, a total change of pace as we arrive at the world-class Mt. Kenya Safari Club in Nanyuki. This elegant resort, set exactly on the Equator, was the dream brought to life by the late actor William Holden. It hosts royalty, heads of state and celebrities. It has been repeatedly listed as one of the world's 20 finest resorts. The manicured grounds look up to snow-capped Mt. Kenya and offer all sorts of optional activities, including golf, bowling, horseback riding and tennis. As a member of the Club during your stay, you can enjoy a heated pool, fine boutiques, a gallery and beauty services. On arrival, you'll indulge in a wonderful lunch, providing the club's reputation for its excellent food. Later you can follow a favorite pastime, or just explore the manicured grounds with resident peacocks and storks. Evening dress code here is casually elegant. When you return from dinner, you'll find a cozy fire set in your fireplace. The next day, take the opportunity to catch up on some activities you missed yesterday, or, perhaps, go back and pick up that piece you saw in the gallery. By the way, the resident naturist is excellent and leads fascinating walks during the day. The horseback riding takes a very scenic route through varied settings, and don't miss the wonderful animal orphanage. On our second evening, we may enjoy a small private dinner along the Leakey River . Club vans pick us up and deliver us to the site, where we enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before a candle-lit dinner. There is special entertainment at one point and the night chill is kept at bay with charcoal braziers in the dining tent to assure comfort. The evening is exciting, exotic and a treasured memory. MT. KENYA SAFARI CLUB.
Day 23, 24, 25:
The next day, we fly from a small field directly to the Mara Intrepids private strip. The flight over the rolling Loita Hills and grazing wildlife is breathtaking. We arrive in time to settle in and enjoy lunch under the acacias. The Masai Mara is considered by many to be the jewel and highlight of any safari. It is ringed along the Talek River , where you hear soft river sounds at night, often with the sounds of animals on the other side of the river. Each tent is appointed with comfortable furnishings, en suite bath and many amenities, giving you full comfort and relaxation. There is a rope ladder crossing the river where elephants frequently come to drink at dusk. Each day here is a vivid collection of memories of sounds, sights, color and impressions. Here, you can indulge in an optional hot-air balloon excursion over the plains and rivers. The Mara offers a bounty of wildlife and even more so during the Great Migration. Here in the Mara, you'll find a treasure house of beautiful experiences, from dramatic wildlife sightings to creature comforts in exotic surroundings, to majestic night views of the Southern Hemisphere's celestial splendor in crystal clean air.
Day 26: One last morning game run, etching Mara scenes into memory. After breakfast, though difficult, it's time to meet our plane just outside the compound. The flight back is again beautiful, and brings us back to Nairobi , where day rooms are reserved for us again at the Grand Regency for you to make preparations for the return home. Personal choices for remaining activity will vary, so there is no scheduled lunch, but we will gather for a farewell dinner here at the Regency.
TOUR COSTS Per Person Sharing $5060 Single Room Supplement $1250
Departure Dates : Please note that this is always a set departure.
What is Included in the safari
Accommodation with 3 meals while on Safari· 2 meals at the Coast and breakfast in Nairobi· Transport in specially-built tour vans with pop-up roofs and guaranteed seats.· Domestic flights· Park entrance fees· Services of English-speaking driver/guides· Airport transfers· Welcome Safari kit during Safari Orientation· Farewell Dinner· First Class overnight train transfer including meals· Flying Doctor Membership (Optional)· Donation to EAWL and AAF
EXCLUDED ·
Airport departure taxes on international flights· Passport, visas, travel insurance· Items of a personal nature like beverages, etc· Tips
What Others Have Said
We sincerely believe that the opinions and comments of those that have traveled with us are the best commentary on the program.
"On a scale of one to ten, we think this trip rates fifteen!" Mr. And Mrs. Herman, Algonquin, Illinois . "One of the greatest trips I have ever taken. A photographer and animals lover's dream. Knowledgeable, caring and fun leaders with vast experience of the fabulous scenery, nourishment, lodging, and best of all, the animals you have always wanted to see in their natural habitat with enough time to experience their behavior. Do not pass this opportunity!" C. W. Thompson, Crystal Lake , Illinois
"I found many added bonuses with my African Adventure. Meeting wild animals on their own turf was like a dream, but equally wonderful was experiencing the culture of the Dark Continent . The warmth and hospitality of its people, the breathtaking vistas and the choice of stays all made this trip one I will never forget!" O'Hara, Barrington , Illinois
"I just want you to know how much I enjoyed this wonderful experience. It was far more than I ever expected or even hoped for! I'll certainly never forget it. Thanks for everything". M. Baker, Independence , Oregon .
"It was the best trip of my life! Africa is educational, fascinating and awe-inspiring. A visit to Africa makes me realize how inconsequential, and, at the same time, how important all life is in the universe. I hope to go with you again". M. Lundvick, Cary , Illinois ". A wonderful, well-planned itinerary that just seemed to get better each day. We're so glad we made the choice and want to do this again!" Mr. And Mrs. Errton, Chicago , Illinois (Perhaps the best recommendation is that people have repeated this adventure with the Assisi Animal Foundation)
