INCREDIBLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES: SKY DIVING NAMIBIA
6 February 2025
LUXURY VS BUDGET SAFARIS
12 February 2025INCREDIBLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES: SKY DIVING NAMIBIA
6 February 2025LUXURY VS BUDGET SAFARIS
12 February 2025DISCOVER KENYA
A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY, WILDLIFE AND CULTURE
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT KENYA
WHY KENYA
STANDS OUT
SAFARI ADVENTURES
A safari in Kenya is a bucket-list adventure that offers the chance to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. The country’s diverse ecosystems provide a home for an array of animals, from the iconic Big Five to rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and Rothschild's Giraffe. Kenya’s well-managed parks and reserves ensure a safe and immersive experience, whether you’re exploring on game drives or walking safaris. Moreover, the dramatic landscapes, from open savannahs to lush riverbanks, provide stunning backdrops for every wildlife encounter. Beyond the animals, safaris also offer cultural interactions with communities like the Maasai, adding depth and richness to your journey.
Here are a couple of our favourite options when it comes to safari in the different regions of Kenya:
THE MASAI MARA
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries, renowned for the Great Migration where over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its vast savannas. The reserve's rolling grasslands, dotted with iconic acacia trees, creates a classic African landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. Named after the Maasai people who have traditionally inhabited these lands, the reserve not only offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities but also provides insights into the rich cultural heritage of these semi-nomadic shepherd's. Beyond the migration, the Mara boasts one of the highest concentrations of big cats in Africa, with lions, leopards, and cheetahs frequently spotted hunting across its plains. The reserve's diverse ecosystem supports over 470 bird species, while its life-giving Mara River serves as both a vital water source and a dramatic stage for wildebeest crossings during the migration.
We recommend the following Camps and Lodges when visiting the Masai Mara:
Enkishui Wild Eye Mara Camp is an exclusive, intimate safari retreat located in the heart of the Mara Triangle Conservancy, Maasai Mara. Catering to just 12 guests, this seasonal camp offers a personalized and crowd-free experience, placing visitors at the heart of Africa’s iconic wilderness.
Angama Mara is perched high on the edge of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, and feels like it's floating in the sky - its name actually means 'suspended in mid-air' in Swahili. Each of its glass-fronted tents offers jaw-dropping views over the Mara plains.
Governor's Camp is one of the oldest camps in the Mara and sits right along a bend in the Mara River. The camp keeps things traditional with classic safari-style tents that have wooden floors and verandas looking out over the river or plains.
These camps and lodges each have their own unique style of hospitality and accommodation, all delivering unforgettable moments in the Masai Mara,
DID YOU KNOW
We have a highly exclusive and immersive camp in the Masai Mara?
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Amboseli National Park, situated in southern Kenya near the Tanzania border, is renowned for offering some of the most spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. The park's unique ecosystem combines swamps, woodlands, and vast open plains that support an incredible diversity of wildlife, particularly large herds of African elephants that are known for their unusually large tusks. Visitors to Amboseli can witness not only these majestic elephants but also numerous other species including lions, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeest, and over 400 species of birds that thrive in and around the park's marshlands. The park's name comes from the Maasai word "empusel," meaning salty, dusty place, which perfectly describes the ancient dried-up lake bed that forms part of the park's landscape. Beyond its natural wonders, Amboseli also provides valuable insights into Maasai culture, as the local Maasai communities continue to live traditionally in the areas surrounding the park, adding a rich cultural dimension to visitors' experiences.
Ol Tukai, nestled in the heart of Amboseli National Park, is a premium safari lodge renowned for its unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its prime location for wildlife viewing. The lodge features chalet-style accommodation surrounded by manicured gardens and natural vegetation, where guests can often spot elephants and other wildlife from their private verandas while enjoying the lodge's legendary hospitality.
Tortilis Camp, named after the flat-topped acacia tortilis trees that characterize the area, is a luxurious tented camp offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from its elevated position on a hill in a private conservancy bordering Amboseli National Park. The camp features 16 elegantly furnished tents with private verandas, a main lodge with a pool, and is particularly renowned for its excellent guides who lead game drives both in the private conservancy and the national park.
Elephant Garden Camp provides an intimate and authentic safari experience, with comfortable tented accommodations positioned to maximize views of both wildlife and Mount Kilimanjaro. The camp's strategic location near elephant corridors allows guests to observe these magnificent creatures up close as they make their daily trek through the area, while the camp's traditional African design and warm hospitality create a genuine bush experience.
DID YOU KNOW
We host a scheduled photo safari to
Amboseli and Kicheche
SAMBURU NATIONAL PARK
Samburu National Reserve, located in northern Kenya along the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River, is a rugged and captivating wilderness that showcases unique wildlife adapted to its semi-arid environment. The reserve is home to several rare species known as the "Samburu Special Five" - the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx - making it a distinctive destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Against a backdrop of doum palms and acacia trees, visitors can observe large herds of elephants that frequently visit the riverbanks, while predators like lions and leopards patrol the savannah in search of prey. The reserve also holds cultural significance as the ancestral land of the Samburu people, semi-nomadic pastoralists whose traditional way of life remains closely connected to this striking landscape
Sasaab Lodge, a luxurious retreat perched high above the Ewaso Ng'iro River, offers an intimate safari experience with just nine Moroccan-styled rooms featuring private plunge pools and spectacular views across the wilderness. The lodge's exceptional service, gourmet dining, and unique activities like visits to Samburu villages make it one of the most prestigious accommodations in the region.
Elephant Bedroom Camp strikes a perfect balance between comfort and authenticity with its 12 spacious tented suites set along the riverbank, where elephants often wander through the camp. The camp provides excellent value with its all-inclusive packages featuring game drives, guided walks, and meals served in their open-air dining area.
Samburu Sopa Lodge, situated on a hill overlooking the vast savannah, offers comfortable accommodation at a more accessible price point with its traditional African-styled rooms and a refreshing swimming pool. The lodge's friendly staff and buffet-style meals create a welcoming atmosphere for families and budget-conscious travelers while still providing easy access to the park's main attractions.
DID YOU KNOW
We have a travel experiences page dedicated
to cultural travel
LAKE NAKURU
Lake Nakuru, situated in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, is renowned for its stunning pink shoreline created by vast flocks of flamingos that gather to feed on the lake's abundant algae. This alkaline lake, protected within Lake Nakuru National Park, serves as a crucial sanctuary for both lesser and greater flamingos, along with over 400 other bird species that make it a birdwatcher's paradise. Beyond its avian inhabitants, the national park surrounding the lake is home to diverse wildlife, including rhinos, lions, leopards, and various antelope species, making it one of Kenya's most celebrated conservation areas.
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge represents the pinnacle of luxury accommodation at Lake Nakuru, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the flamingo-dotted lake and featuring elegantly appointed rooms with private balconies. The lodge offers top-tier amenities including a swimming pool, spa services, and gourmet dining experiences that blend local and international cuisine while providing exceptional game-viewing opportunities.
Lake Nakuru Lodge provides comfortable accommodation in a classic safari setting with well-maintained rooms that offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding savannah. The lodge maintains a traditional African ambiance with its thatched-roof design and offers good value for money with its inclusive game drives and hearty buffet meals.
MARINE & COASTAL WONDERS
Kenya's coastline stretches over 500 kilometers along the warm Indian Ocean, featuring pristine white-sand beaches fringed with swaying palm trees and vibrant coral reefs. From the historic port city of Mombasa to the tranquil shores of Diani Beach and the untouched beauty of Watamu, visitors can enjoy world-class snorkeling, diving, and traditional dhow cruises while basking in the region's rich Swahili culture. The idyllic island of Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into centuries of coastal heritage with its narrow winding streets and traditional architecture.
While not part of Kenya, the exotic spice island of Zanzibar lies just a short flight away off the coast of Tanzania, making it an easily accessible extension to any Kenyan holiday. Its historic Stone Town, aromatic spice plantations, and crystal-clear waters complement Kenya's coastal attractions, offering travelers the opportunity to experience two distinct but equally enchanting East African coastal destinations.
Mombasa
Diani Beach
Watamu Beach
Lamu Beach
Bamburi Beach
Zanzibar, Tanzania
MOUNT KENYA
Mount Kenya, stretching majestically into the African sky as the continent's second-highest peak after Kilimanjaro, is one of East Africa's most breathtaking natural wonders. Known to the local Kikuyu people as Kirinyaga, or "God's Resting Place," this extinct volcano rises dramatically to 5,199 meters (17,057 feet), creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that dominates the central Kenyan landscape. The mountain is a hiker's paradise, offering everything from gentle forest walks to challenging technical climbs up its jagged peaks. Its diverse ecosystems showcase an incredible array of life zones, from bamboo forests and alpine moorlands to the stunning glaciers that crown its summit. With its crystal-clear mountain streams, rare species like the Giant Lobelia, and spectacular sunrise views from Point Lenana, Mount Kenya stands as an iconic destination that captivates both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
NAIROBI
Nairobi, the vibrant capital city of Kenya, stands as a dynamic metropolis that beautifully blends African tradition with modern urban life. Home to over 4.3 million people in its metropolitan area, the city sits at an elevation of approximately 1,795 meters above sea level, enjoying a relatively mild climate despite its proximity to the equator.
The city's landscape is a fascinating contrast of sleek skyscrapers, bustling markets, and natural wonders, including the unique Nairobi National Park – the world's only national park within a capital city's boundaries. Nairobi's cultural fabric is woven from dozens of ethnic groups and international influences, reflected in its diverse culinary scene, vibrant arts community, and dynamic nightlife. Despite facing typical urban challenges like traffic congestion and rapid growth, the city continues to evolve as a major African powerhouse, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and tourists from around the globe.
A few of the many attractions you can enjoy while visiting Nairobi:
NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK
Nairobi National Park represents a remarkable fusion of wilderness and urban life, established in 1946 as Kenya's first national park. Covering 117 square kilometers, this unique sanctuary allows visitors to spot the Big Four (lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino) against Nairobi's striking skyline. The park features over 400 bird species and serves as a crucial black rhino sanctuary, with one of Kenya's most successful rhino conservation programs. Visitors can enjoy game drives on well-maintained roads, with the best viewing times being early morning and late afternoon. The park's proximity to the city makes it possible to transition from a morning safari to a business meeting within minutes. Beyond wildlife viewing, the park offers picnic sites, walking trails, and the famous Ivory Burning Site Monument, marking Kenya's commitment to ending the ivory trade.
THE DAVID SHELDRICK WILDLIFE TRUST
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates at the edge of Nairobi National Park, opening its doors daily for one hour between 11 AM and noon for public viewing of the orphaned elephants. The trust's dedicated keepers act as surrogate mothers to these orphans, staying with them 24/7 and even sleeping in their stables during the initial adjustment period. Each elephant has its own compelling rescue story, and visitors can watch them being bottle-fed and playing in the mud, behaviors crucial to their development. The trust maintains a fostering program where visitors can "adopt" an elephant for an annual fee, receiving updates about their chosen elephant's progress. Beyond elephant care, the trust operates mobile veterinary units and aerial surveillance to protect wildlife throughout Kenya. The organization has pioneered elephant rehabilitation techniques and maintains a strong anti-poaching presence in key conservation areas. Their successful rehabilitation program has resulted in many orphans being released back into the wild, with some even having their own wild-born babies.
THE GIRAFFE MANOR AND CENTRE
Giraffe Manor, an exclusive boutique hotel set in 12 acres of private land within a 140-acre indigenous forest, stands as one of Nairobi's most iconic properties. Built in the 1930s, this elegant manor house combines luxury accommodation with the unique experience of sharing breakfast with resident Rothschild's giraffes who regularly poke their long necks through the windows seeking treats. The manor features 12 distinctively decorated rooms, each capturing the property's colonial-era charm through art deco features, four-poster beds, and antique furnishings. The experience of having giraffes visit during morning and evening meals has made the manor one of Africa's most photographed properties and a bucket-list destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The hotel maintains strong ties with the neighboring Giraffe Centre and participates in conservation efforts for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe species. Guests can enjoy guided walks through the manor's extensive gardens, afternoon tea on the terrace, and exceptional cuisine featuring locally-sourced ingredients. The property's resident staff includes expert guides who share detailed knowledge about the giraffes' behaviors and personalities, making each interaction educational as well as memorable. Beyond the giraffe encounters, the manor offers a perfect base for exploring other Nairobi attractions while providing an exclusive, intimate atmosphere that has attracted celebrities, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.
THE MAASAI MARKET
The Maasai Market exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of Kenya, operating at different locations throughout Nairobi on specific days of the week. This vibrant marketplace showcases the artistic talents of local craftspeople, particularly from the Maasai community, offering an array of handcrafted items including beaded jewelry, fabric prints, soapstone carvings, and traditional clothing. The market serves as a vital economic platform for local artisans, many of whom have passed their crafting skills down through generations. Visitors can observe artisans at work, learning about traditional techniques and the cultural significance behind various designs and patterns. Each location offers a slightly different selection of crafts and allows for bargaining, which is considered part of the cultural experience. The market also serves as a meeting point for cultural exchange, where visitors can learn about Maasai traditions and customs directly from community members.
THE KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM
The Karen Blixen Museum, located in the affluent suburb of Karen (named after Blixen herself), preserves the former home of the Danish author Karen Blixen, who wrote under the pen name Isak Dinesen. The house, built in 1912, served as the center of her coffee plantation from 1917 until her departure in 1931. The museum's rooms have been carefully furnished with a mixture of original pieces and period furniture, providing an authentic glimpse into colonial life in Kenya. The house gained worldwide fame after the release of the Oscar-winning film "Out of Africa," based on Blixen's memoir of the same name. Visitors can explore the grounds, which include original farm equipment, the coffee-drying plant, and beautiful gardens with views of the Ngong Hills. The museum offers guided tours that detail Blixen's life, her relationship with Kenya, and the colonial period's impact on modern Kenya. The surrounding gardens are popular for events and provide a serene escape from Nairobi's bustle. Photography enthusiasts particularly enjoy the museum's colonial architecture and the magnificent views of the Ngong Hills that inspired much of Blixen's writing.
CARNIVORE RESTAURANT
Carnivore Restaurant has been a Nairobi institution since 1980, famous for its unique dining concept inspired by Brazilian churrascarias. The restaurant's distinctive feature is its traditional Kenyan nyama choma (roasted meat) style, where various meats are roasted on traditional Maasai swords over a huge charcoal pit at the restaurant's entrance. Servers, known as carvers, move from table to table with these sword-skewered meats, carving portions directly onto cast iron plates. While game meat is no longer served due to conservation laws, the menu still features an impressive variety including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and crocodile, all prepared with special marinades and sauces. The restaurant's décor reflects a medieval banquet hall atmosphere, complete with fortress-style architecture, rustic furniture, and traditional African art. Beyond the meat feast, Carnivore offers the Simba Saloon, one of Nairobi's most popular nightlife venues, featuring live music and dancing. The restaurant also serves traditional Kenyan side dishes and maintains a legendary dawa (meaning "medicine" in Swahili) cocktail bar, specializing in vodka, lime, and honey concoctions.
COFFEE AND TEA FARMS
Coffee and tea farms in the highlands surrounding Nairobi offer immersive experiences into Kenya's renowned coffee and tea industry. These tours typically begin with a historical overview of Kenya's coffee or tea industry, which dates back to the early 1900s. Visitors can walk through the plantations, learning about the entire production process from seedling cultivation to harvesting techniques. The tours explain the crucial role of altitude, soil composition, and climate in producing Kenya's highly sought-after beverages. Most farms demonstrate traditional and modern processing methods, from picking and sorting to roasting (for coffee) or oxidation (for tea). Visitors can participate in professional tasting sessions, learning to identify different grades and flavor profiles. Many farms, such as Kiambethu Tea Farm, established in 1910, maintain original colonial buildings and equipment, providing historical context alongside agricultural education. Tours often conclude with a traditional farm lunch featuring fresh local ingredients, and visitors can purchase premium products directly from the source. The farms also demonstrate sustainable farming practices and fair-trade principles that support local communities.
INSIDER TRAVEL PLANS
Kenya has so much to offer, and planning the perfect trip is all about finding the right mix of adventure, relaxation, and amazing experiences. I've put together two 14-day itineraries that I think work really well. One is ideal for the solo traveler who want a mix of fun and interaction, and the other is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Both give you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed and include a balance of safari experiences in world-famous parks like the Masai Mara, coastal escapes along the pristine Indian Ocean beaches, and immersive cultural encounters with communities like the Maasai. From witnessing the Great Migration to snorkeling in marine parks and exploring the historic streets of Lamu, these carefully crafted itineraries showcase the very best of what Kenya has to offer.
A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
DAY 1
Arrive in Nairobi and stay at the Giraffe Manor. Enjoy a couples' spa treatment to unwind from the journey. A romantic dinner at Talisman Restaurant.DAY 2
Explore Nairobi and visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Karen Blixen Museum. Enjoy a lunch at Hemingways Nairobi and sunset cocktails at The Alchemist.DAY 3-4
Fly to Amboseli and check-in at Tortilis Camp. Go on daily game drives to see elephants and other wildlife. A private dinner under the stars. A morning Sunrise Hot Air Balloon safari on Day 4, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.DAY 5-6
Fly to Samburu National Reserve and stay at Sasaab Lodge. Enjoy daily game drive and spot the "Samburu Special Five" (Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich, Besia Oryx and Gerenuk).DAY 7-9
Fly to the Masai Mara and transfer to Angama Mara. An afternoon game drive with a sunset champagne toast. Day 8 is a full day of game drives to spot the Big 5 and end the day with a romantic dinner. Enjoy a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon ride over the Masai Mara followed by a champagne breakfast on Day 9.DAY 10
Fly to Diani Beach and check-in at Almanara Luxury Villas. Relax on the White sandy beaches, followed by a beachfront dinner.Day 11-13
Morning snorkeling or diving on Day 11, with an afternoon couple's spa treatment. A sunset dhow cruise with Champagne and Swahili delicacies. Day 12 take a private boat to a secluded sandbank for a romantic beach picnic, and a sunset horseback riding along the beach. Spend Day 13 relaxing on the beach or enjoy poolside cocktails. A farewell romantic dinner at Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant.DAY 14
Enjoy a lazy morning with Breakfast in bed before departing for your flight back home.
SOLO TRAVEL
DAY 1
Arrive in Nairobi and stay at Tamarind Tree Hotel. Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre. Enjoy dinner at Cultiva Farm, known for its farm-to-table dining experience.DAY 2
Explore Nairobi with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum and Kazuri Beads Factory. Have lunch at Hemingways Nairobi and enjoy sunset cocktails at The Alchemist.DAY 3-5
Fly to Samburu National Reserve and check-in at Saruni Samburu. Go on daily game drives to spot the "Samburu Special Five" (Grevy’s Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx, and Gerenuk). Enjoy a walking safari and visit a Samburu village for a cultural experience.DAY 6-8
Fly to Amboseli National Park and stay at Tortilis Camp. Go on daily game drives with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a private bush dinner under the stars. On Day 7, take a morning hot air balloon safari followed by a champagne breakfast in the wild.Day 9-11
Fly to the Maasai Mara and check-in at Governors' Camp, located along the Mara River. Enjoy an afternoon game drive with a sunset sundowner. On Day 10, take a full-day game drive to spot the Big Five, ending with a dinner under the stars. Experience a sunrise hot air balloon safari on Day 11, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.DAY 12-13
Fly to Diani Beach and stay at The Sands at Nomad. On Day 12, go snorkeling or diving at Kisite Marine Park, followed by an afternoon Swahili cooking class. Enjoy a sunset dhow cruise with cocktails. On Day 13, take a private boat to a secluded sandbank for a beach picnic, then horseback ride along the shoreline at sunset.DAY 14
Spend a lazy morning with breakfast by the beach before departing for your flight home.
TIPS FOR TRAVELING IN KENYA
Kenya is a destination with a bit of everything—breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Nairobi, witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, climbing the slopes of Mount Kenya, or unwinding on the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean coast, each region of the country offers something uniquely special.
When planning a trip here, it's all about finding the right balance of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. From tracking the Big Five in world-renowned national parks to immersing yourself in the traditions of the Maasai people, or sailing on a traditional dhow along the Lamu archipelago, Kenya provides endless opportunities for meaningful experiences. I hope this guide helps you explore Kenya in a way that resonates with your travel style. From practical tips to carefully crafted itineraries, I've shared insights that will make your journey smoother and more enriching.
So, pack your bags, get ready for adventure, and embrace everything Kenya has to offer—from the rolling savannas to the coral reefs, from ancient coastal towns to modern city life. This is a land where nature's greatest spectacles unfold daily, where ancient traditions meet contemporary life, and where the warmth of Kenyan hospitality will leave lasting impressions long after your journey ends.
Until next time,
Working in the bush has developed me into a passionate guide and photographer deeply committed to capture the beauty of the great outdoors through my lens. I’m always on the lookout for the perfect shot and eager to share the wonders of nature with others.
EXPERIENCE KENYA
A country of immense safari history, cultural diversity and incredible experiences.