A classic Kenya safari covering the major parks and reserves from the Rift Valley Lakes to the famous savannahs and abundant game of the Maasai Mara. We end our trip relaxing on the Swahili coast close to Mombasa.
rift valley lakes
Beginning our journey in Nairobi, we head north into the celebrated Rift Valley. Our first stop is Lake Naivasha where we take a trip to Crescent Island Nature Reserve. You may like to explore the spectacular landscapes of Hell's Gate National Park before we take high tea on the lawn at Elsamere, the home of Joy Adamson of Born Free fame. At nearby Lake Nakuru we enjoy superb game-viewing in an area famed for its thousands of flamingos, large numbers of white rhino as well as leopard, buffalo and lion.
The Maasai Mara
Next we head across the Rift Valley floor to the legendary Maasai Mara. Watered by the Mara River and its tributary the Talek, the savannah plains and density of wildlife in the Mara, Kenya's best known reserve, is the classic image of an African safari. It is particularly famous for its 'Big Cats' amongst its abundant game and bird life and we may be lucky enough to witness a hunt. You may even like to make a balloon trip over the plains at dawn for an unforgettable experience.
Exotic Swahili Coast
Returning to Nairobi, we fly east to Mombasa to spend our final few days on the Swahili Coast overlooking the Indian Ocean. Here you can beachcomb, snorkel in the warm waters, take a dhow trip to nearby islands, birdwatch, enjoy excellent local produce and seafood or just relax and enjoy the tropical warmth on the secluded beach. The perfect end to a classic East African adventure.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Join Nairobi; drive Lake Naivasha; excursion to Crescent Island. 2 Optional trip to Hell's Gate N. Park; high tea at Elsamere. 3 Drive Lake Nakuru; game drive. 4 To Maasai Mara; game drive. 5 & 6 Game-viewing in Maasai Mara with optional early morning balloon safari. 7 Morning game drive; drive Nairobi. 8 Fly to Mombasa; transfer to Maweni beach. 9 & 10 At leisure. 11 End Mombasa.
Accommodation: 1nt hotel, 2nts lodge, 4nts camping, 3nts cottages; 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 7 dinners included.
Transport: Safari truck/Internal flight.
Comment: A classic Kenya safari and relaxation on the Indian Ocean. Travel is in a purpose-built off-road safari truck and we use some comfortable lodges as well as bandas inside the National Parks.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s).
Trip Reference: FKP
