Away from the hustle of Nairobi and crowded central safari routes, this experience of eastern Kenya is one of the most inviting combinations for any traveller to the region. The warm, shimmering sea, lush rainforest, a huge array of wildlife, and the most welcoming, friendly people make this a a?? must doa?? tour. All these attractions are combined with a rare opportunity to work amongst wild African elephants within a picturesque sanctuary that is also home to warthog, impala, monitor lizard and baboons. The rewards of this tour are immense - an unforgettable experience.
Itinerary:
Day 1,MOMBASA Arrive Mombasa and transfer to the pretty beach of Bamburi. Tonight we stay in a hotel near the beach surrounded by coconut palms and tropical flower trees. Day 2,MOMBASA a?" MUKURUMUJI Transfer to Mukurumuji camp situated within the Sable Valley. Enjoy a guided bush walk, learning how to identify wildlife tracks and the local fauna. If we are lucky we may even see elephant and buffalo roaming in the hills.A (BLD) Day 3,MUKURUMUJI A free day to relax in this tranquil camp and enjoy the magnificent views of the rainforest. We explore the local village and there is the opportunity to take part in a river walk. (BLD) Day 4 to Day 8,MUKURUMUJI - MWALUGANJE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY Transfer to Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary which boasts the highest density (per km2) of elephants in Africa. No other place can offer as much chance to see elephants this close up in the wild. We spend the next 5 nights camping here volunteering in the sanctuary. We learn about elephant behaviour and the threats facing these amazing animals as we participate in our daily tasks, as well as enjoying game drives in the sanctuary. (BLD)A Day 9 to Day 10,DIANI BEACH COASTAL CAMP Enjoy the white sands and warm waters at Diani Beach alongside the resident colobus monkeys and baboons. There are plenty of options to choose from - you can visit the local Maasai village, take part in a mangrove tour or perhaps join a sea safari and search for the dolphins and whale sharks that frequent this part of the Indian Ocean. There are many watersport activities on offer, and miles of gorgeous beach for those who prefer to relax in the sun. (B) Day 11,TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK a?" TAITA RANCH We enjoy game drives in Tsavo East National Park. One of the largest national parks in Kenya and home to some enormous herds of animals. Game includes elephant, lion, leopard, crocodile, waterbuck, kudu, gerenuk and zebra. In the evenings we take night game drives hoping to spot some of the creatures that are hard to see in the day. (BLD) Day 12,TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK - TAITA RANCH Further game drives in Tsavo East National Park returning to Taita Ranch/Satao Rock Camp for another night game drive offering the chance to spot more elusive nocturnal creatures. (BLD). Day 13,SATAO ROCK.TAITA RANCH - MOMBASA Early morning game drive in Taita Ranch before transferring to Mombasa (B) Day 14,MOMBASA Tour ends after breakfast. (B)
Staffing and participation: Escorted by tour leader, services of local guides within National Parks and Reserves.
Transport: Fully equipped safari vehicle, minivan or bus.
Activities: Day and night game drives, bush walk, volunteering at Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary, optional coastal activities.
Accommodation: 9 nights camping in classic safari-style tented units, 2 nights hotel, 2 nights beach chalet.
Meals: As per itinerary B a?" Breakfast, L a?" Lunch, D a?" Dinner
International flights:
Local payment:
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Donations: We have set up a donation policy where volunteers are required to raise a minimum amount to contribute towards the programme and charity. We guarantee that 100% of all donations will be forwarded to the charity, which means no cut is taken by Imaginative Volunteers for administration or money transfer charges - it is our promise and our pleasure! The donations are used by the charities to cover any running costs the programme may incur such as material or labour costs, and also help the charity continue to reach their goals by funding other essential work they may be undertaking. Please call us for details at 800.228.8747.
Trip Reference: VKEB