LAKE VICTORIA TRIP IDEAS FOR YOUR KENYA SAFARI

AMBOSELI

You will proceed to Amboseli for the next two nights. Amboseli National Park is a magical landscape where events such as these unfold almost every day across the 392 square kilometers (151 square miles) of protected wilderness. The park borders Tanzania and is situated at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak, and the melting snow flows into underground springs that feed the swamps and wetlands that dot the plains. These water sources attract animals of all sizes, the most sought-after being– the free-roaming elephants, but you may also see elands, waterbucks, grant's gazelles, warthogs, coke's hartebeests, zebras and other grazing herbivores. The abundance of large prey supports lions, leopards, civets, wildcats and other elusive hunters, as well as jackals, hyenas and other scavengers.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Amboseli

Safari Tier 1 - Tortilis Camp

Tortilis Camp is situated secluded in the south-western portion of the park with spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and access to its private Kitirua Conservancy. At 19340 feet, the extinct snowcapped volcano dominates the scenery and provides vital water to the plains in the park. Melting snow flows into underground springs that emerge in wetlands and swamps that attract an abundance of prey, predator and avi-fauna. Most of the guest accommodations are twin or double tents, but for families on an adventure travel in Kenya, the camp also offers a family tent and a two-bedroom boutique, private house. The makuti-covered tents are constructed of canvas with a thatched roof, and the open insect-proof windows allow fresh breezes to keep you cool during the day and to allow daylight in. The private house features a separate sitting and dining area, and the veranda is one of the finest places on the property to see Mt. Kilimanjaro. Tortilis also have a swimming pool to cool off from the warmth of the day and offers massage, pedicure and manicure bush services – great for vacationing honeymooners who want some coddling.

Safari Tier 2 - Elerai Camp

As part of the “Out of Africa Collection” of camps in Kenya, the Maasai partnered Elerai Camp is a 17-room boutique accommodation for your exclusive, luxurious wildlife safari in Amboseli National Park. Set within a remote section bordering the southeastern portion of the park, the nostalgic neo-design of the accommodation is reminiscent of the camps that were used by Kenya’s earliest explorers, and the hillside location gives you breathtaking views of the savannah plains and mighty snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Advantageously, the camp is located in the private conservancy of Elerai thus affording AfricanMecca guests access to nature walks, Maasai village visits and night game drives within the dense conservancy. Constructed of acacia poles, cedar wood floors, thatch roof and other native materials, the 12 tents evoke the boutique romance of East Africa with unobstructed views of Mt. Kilimanjaro while the 5 chalet-style guest suites are designed with natural stone and acacia wood, and feature ensuite bathrooms with bathtub, as well as private verandas with a shrubland view.

Safari Tier 3 - Kibo Safari Camp

Set in the heart of Maasai life on the scenic African plains and in the shadow of the largest, free-standing mountain in the world, the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro, Kibo Safari Camp is a huge, non-frill abode to stay as part of your wildlife vacation in Africa. It can take in over 150 guests on a full-house so expect personalization of services to be at the bare minimum. On arrival at the camp, your budget holiday in Africa starts with a modest welcome cool towel and juice drink to refresh you following the warm, dusty journey to the site. The wilderness bush and environmentally conscious camp structure and furnishings blend with their surroundings to provide a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. Kibo Safari Camp has a total 73 canvas tents with a thatch roof to protect it from the heat of day, and options of double or twin, triple and family rooms are on offer. Each self-contained tent has an in-shower, sink and toilet, limited hot and cold running water and variable rationed electricity that operates only for few hours during the day and night.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF AMBOSELI

CENTRAL MASAI MARA

You will proceed to Central Masai Mara for the next two nights. For our adventurous, thrill-seeking guests who desire a front row seat to the crossing of the Mara and Talek Rivers during the wildebeest migration season, the most well-known part of the Great Migration, we recommend the central zone of the reserve. Central Masai Mara is also a year-round game-viewing mecca with impressive populations of herbivores and predators which remain even after the spectacular hordes of wildebeests and zebras have gone.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Masai Mara Central

Safari Tier 1 - Naibor Camp

Naibor Camp is an upmarket accommodation that is located along the Talek River, a superlative location for your boutique tour experience in central Masai Mara National Reserve. Being tucked away in the riverine forest that surrounds the camp makes you feel completely enveloped by some of Kenya’s untouched wilderness. The feeling is further enhanced by the proximity to wallowing hippos, crocodiles and other animals that are just meters away. With such an ambience, Naibor Camp is the perfect place to unwind and recuperate during your high-pace African safari activities. The camp is divided into three areas, and each area offers distinct facilities i.e. Main Naibor, Little Naibor and Naibor Wilderness. Naibor is a premium accommodation, so you are also treated to impeccable service by a staff that takes pride in helping guests feel at home. Their personable natures, excellent knowledge and outstanding professionalism exceed your every expectation. Main Naibor offers 7 guest tents with king size beds built from native fig wood, luxurious sofas, contrasting rugs along with other fused classic-modern design elements.

Safari Tier 2 - Rekero Camp

A blissful wildlife vacation in Kenya with AfricanMecca awaits you at Rekero Camp, a deluxe accommodation that is situated on the banks of the Talek River in the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve. The wilderness is known internationally as a premier destination for authentic African plains safari experiences, and Rekero captures the romantic and adventurous spirits of our guests. The entire camp is designed to celebrate the beauty of the Mara ecosystem with minimal environmental impact. All structures are under canvas, including a mid-size dining tent under shade trees and a small lounge area that rests upon a platform with incredible river views. 9 guest tents allow for a maximum of twenty guests, so you are assured the benefits of an exclusive Masai Mara tour, such as personalized service, exceptional food, immaculate tents with few in-camp guests, top notch personable guides and much more. The décor of your tent enhances the subtle romantic ambience of the setting through a tasteful use of natural blonde woods, neutral colors and rich fabrics.

Safari Tier 3 - Entim Camp

For your modest bush travel in Masai Mara, we recommend Entim Camp located inside in the heart of the reserve. Situated at the meeting point of the Talek River and Mara River, the camp offers a secluded setting, fitting location for activities, palatable food and adequate service. Each of the 10 non-frill tents has the necessary furnishings that you need for a comfortable East African safari overnight stay, such as beds constructed of local wood, storage chest, nightstands, bedside lamps and curtains over the windows. Nature’s beauty is brought indoors with decorative fabrics and accents in chocolate brown, rich gold and bronze, burnt red, sage green, hints of white and many other contrasting colors. Your private verandah has safari-style chairs and a small table where you can enjoy some private game viewing and moments of complete relaxation. Your guest tent is set up to give you views of the river together with supplemented sounds of wildlife traveling to and fro, including hippos, elephants and other herbivores, as well as lions, hyenas and some other predators.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF CENTRAL MASAI MARA

MASAI MARA - NORTH, EAST, SOUTH & WEST

After your stay in Central Masai Mara, you will proceed for two nights to a private conservancy in the northern, eastern, southern or western regions of the main reserve along its border, which serves as wildlife management buffer zones. Each conservancy is founded upon a mutually-beneficial collaboration between landowners, conservation organizations and guest camps. The private-ownership status of the conservancies also means that a greater variety of safari activities are offered to guests, many of which are restricted in the main reserve.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Masai Mara

1. Northern Masai Mara Camps And Lodges

The northern Masai Mara zone is comprised of six conservancies – Mara North, Olare Motorogi, Mara Naboisho, Ol Choro Oiroua, Ol Kinyei and Lemek. Each conservancy offers our guests unique accommodations, as well as incredible experiences in one of the world’s most pristine wilderness areas.

2. Eastern Masai Mara Camps And Lodges

The eastern zone of Masai Mara offers accommodations in the private Siana Conservancy as well as in the main reserve. We advise our guests that this area has the highest density of camps and lodges when compared to other zones, with the exception of Leleshwa Camp and Mara Bushtops that focus on high-quality Siana wilderness experience.

3. Southern Masai Mara Camps And Lodges

The southern zone of Masai Mara has the lowest density of guest accommodations when compared to the other zones. As a result, you enjoy a secluded experience in the remote bush country of the reserve and Olderkesi Conservancy. Cottar’s 1920’s Camp and Cottar's Homestead are extraordinary choices for our Tier 1 premier guests.

4. Western Masai Mara Camps And Lodges

The western zone of Masai Mara primarily includes accommodations on private leased Maasai lands outside the public reserve with the exception of Bateleur and Kichwa Tembo Camps that are set in a very small private andbeyond concession that allows access to night game drives and bush walks. All accommodations in the western section offer game drives in the Mara Triangle areas of the public reserve - sometimes known as the Mara Conservancy under the Trans Mara Maasai Council

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF MASAI MARA NORTH, EAST, SOUTH & WEST

LAKE VICTORIA - KENYA

For the utmost pleasurable vacation in East Africa, we recommend a three-night visit to the Kenyan side of Lake Victoria, the largest of Africa’s Great Lakes and the second largest freshwater lake in the world. Located on the western frontier of Kenya, the lake is only a one-hour flight from Nairobi and a 40-minute flight from Maasai Mara, making it a convenient option for your safari plans. Virtually untouched by the modern world, the setting offers one of the finest birding destinations in the world. Lining the shores of Lake Victoria are the enchanting fishing villages of the Luo people who spend their days sailing their traditional boats, fishing, raising their children and taking care of their homes and villages, seemingly unaware of guests. Visits to their villages demonstrate the unmatched hospitality of these native people. Being on the small Kenyan section of Lake Victoria is unlike any other experience on the Tanzanian and Ugandan part of the lake. Whether you are a birder, angler, cultural explorer, rock art and paleontology lover or an easy-going traveler at Lake Victoria, there is something for everyone!

Recommended Accommodation Options For Lake Victoria In Kenya

Safari Tier 1 & 3 Lodgings Are Not Available In Lake Victoria. Only Safari Tier 2 Option Is Available.

Safari Tier 2 - Mfangano Island Camp

We recommend that you set aside time to stay at the mid-range accommodation of Mfangano Island Camp at Lake Victoria as your much-anticipated East African wildlife safari is sure to leave you feeling exhilarated and bushed. The 6 rondavels at the camp include four double and two twin guest rooms built of clay and thatch. Inside your guest room, you feel as if you are on an idyllic island with the outstanding hospitality of the staff ensuring that your every need is met. A four-poster bed is the utmost in comfort when you need to rest from your exploratory tour of Lake Victoria, and the full en-suite bathroom includes hot and cold running water to fill your bathtub or take a shower, as well as basin and flush toilet. The rich colors accented with neutral tones and furnishings create an elegant ambience.

Safari Tier 2 - Rusinga Island Lodge

At the western Kenya sector of Lake Victoria is Rusinga Island Lodge, a secluded getaway for a relaxing break from your hectic yet unforgettable safari in Kenya’s varied national parks and reserves. Nourish your body and mind amongst gardens of lush grass and striking trees filled with unique birdlife and other small denizens. Let go of all of your worries and stress as the attentive staff see to your every need while instinctively knowing when you need seclusion. 6 guest cottages are available as doubles with king-size beds or twins with two queen-size beds, all with a large en-suite bathroom, living area, dressing area and private verandahs facing the gardens and Lake Victoria. Escape into a space of high-contrast natural stone, thatch and wood that is exceptionally complemented by the ecru light floors, comfy linens, mosquito netting and other decorative accents.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF LAKE VICTORIA IN KENYA

RECOMMENDED PRE AND POST SAFARI AND BEACH EXTENSIONS IN KENYA

After this distinct safari, we recommend a combination off-beat extension to either Samburu or the private conservancies of Laikipia in Northern Kenya combined with a visit to Tsavo, Shimba Hills or Meru in Southern and Eastern Kenya depending on your safari activity and wildlife preferences. Thereafter, harmoniously conclude with a beach rest and relaxation visit to the Eastern coast of Kenya with varied seashore, cultural and historic experiences available, including the Swahili islands and beaches of Mombasa (Diani, Galu, Tiwi, Nyali, Bamburi), Lamu, Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi, and the secluded Msambweni coast, idyllic islands of Funzi, Chale or also Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. The options are endless!

NORTHERN KENYA SAFARI EXPERIENCE - RECOMMENDED FOR 3 NIGHTS STAY

1. Laikipia - Lewa Conservancy

Located in northern Kenya, the private conservancies of Laikipia represent an outstanding model of wildlife management that provides AfricanMecca guests with a distinctive safari vacation in Africa. The varied conservancies are home to the second highest wildlife density in Kenya, and while many other areas are experiencing dwindling populations of animals, Laikipia is recognized for its ever-increasing numbers of wildlife, including threatened, rare and endangered species. Guests who visit Laikipia during their bush travel in Kenya will not only see the Big 5 roaming freely, but also black and white rhinos, African wild dogs, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeests and other rare species. One of the greatest advantages of visiting Laikipia during your adventurous tour of Kenya is an opportunity to view an abundance of wildlife while partaking of activities that are restricted in national parks in Kenya. These activities are further enhanced by the low number of other guests due to limited rooming capacity at the sub-conservancies, making Laikipia the perfect choice for those who desire an exclusive African safari experience. Dependent on where you are staying in Laikipia, activities include game drives, bush walks, horseback riding, camel walks and camel rides, aerial helicopter and bi-plan safaris, village visits and much more. With a history that spans over decades, we recommend as our preferred Lewa Conservancy in Eastern Laikipia, as one of today’s most successful conservancies in Kenya.

2. Samburu National Reserve

Enjoy a quintessential Kenyan northern safari in Samburu with unrestricted access to authentic rugged East African wilderness. As you travel through Samburu, the diverse terrain transitions from rolling plains to volcanic remnants. The vegetation is concentrated along the Ewaso Nyiro River, the primary source of water in the reserve. You may not expect to see wildlife in such a stark landscape, but Samburu is home to an abundance of animal species. The most notable and sought after are known as the Samburu Special Five – Somali ostriches, Grevy’s zebras, gerenuks, reticulated giraffes and Beisa oryxes. More common mammals are Grant’s gazelles, impalas, waterbucks, dik diks, olive baboons, elephants, warthogs, hippos and carnivores, including lions, cheetahs, crocodiles, leopards, to name a few.

SOUTHERN & EASTERN KENYA SAFARI EXPERIENCE - RECOMMENDED FOR 2 OR 3 NIGHTS STAY

1. Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park is a striking landscape of emerald green hills, open vistas, winding rivers, dense forests and pools of water with reflections of white clouds in azure blue skies. Remote and wild, the park and surrounding conservancies are largely untouched by humans with the exception of the Maasai warriors who protect and depend upon the land. Described by Ernest Hemingway as "The Green Hills of Africa," this Kenyan treasure is not known as a big game destination, but rather, it is one of the few places where you will find almost no signs of tourism, lending to the surreal sense of isolation amidst surrounding resident fauna.

2. Tsavo East National Park Or Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West National Park shares its northeast boundary line with Tsavo East National Park, and together these two park form one of the world’s largest national parks. Prominent natural landmarks include Mzima Springs in the northern region of the park including the Shetani lava flow. In Tsavo East National Park, you will be welcomed by immense savannah plains dotted with thorn bushes, stands of acacia trees, scrublands and woodlands along with the Athi, Galana, Tsavo and the seasonal Voi Rivers weaving their way along the landscape. Take a front-row seat in a custom safari vehicle in Tsavo to watch the natural behaviors of leopards, cheetahs, mane-less lions and other predators stalk impalas, gazelles, elands, wildebeests, zebras, fringe-eared oryx, dik-diks and other prey animals from the cover of dense bush and deep shadows. This immense action unfolds against a vigilant backdrop of grazing and foraging elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, rhinos and other large herbivores. Walk under tree canopies filled with scampering vervet monkeys, baboons and other tree dwellers.

3. Shimba Hills National Reserve

Just 20 miles from the island of Mombasa is Shimba Hills National Reserve, a small wilderness that offers spectacular vistas and wondrous waterfalls amidst an equatorial forest. The landscape is shrouded in mist and clouds during the early morning hours, creating a mesmerizing setting for a superlative African equatorial vacation. The highland climate nurtures over 1100 plant species that attract a diversity of wildlife, such as giraffes, elephants, zebras, bushbucks, Harvey’s duikers, to name only a handful of the animals that feast upon the vegetation. Within the forests and jungles you may locate Syke’s monkeys, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys and other tree climbers. While there are no large predators in the reserve, you may spot hyenas, serval cats, civet cats and other smaller carnivorous hunters. The list of species continues, as the reserve is home to more than 230 types of avi-fauna. Even the smallest denizens are well-represented, with more than 295 butterflies joining many other insects. These tiniest of creatures, as well as small mammals, support a healthy population of frogs, geckos, lizards, pythons and other reptiles and amphibians. The most-desirable animal, though, is by far the sable and roan antelope.

4. Meru National Park

Meru National Park is famed for its acclaimed setting of the book and movie "Born Free" by Joy and George Adamson. Your adventure in Meru begins as soon as you arrive. As you travel through its coarse roads, you will be struck by the rich canvas of colors and landscapes that the park displays. The earth is a vibrant rust-orange that offsets the lush green trees and vegetation of Meru. Trees like baobabs, acacia, doum palms and commiphora dot the expanses and the 13 rivers of Meru add a brown-green hue, their banks fertile and jade. The grasses of the plains are a sandy golden providing effective camouflage cover for the tawny lions, cheetahs and leopards that lurk in them, looking for a strategy to catch a prey meal of elands, zebras, reedbucks, waterbucks and more. Both white and black rhinos can be seen here that have been translocated from other wildernesses along with resident herds of elephants and buffalos. More than 300 species of birds thrive here and the rivers are rich with catfish and tilapia which in turn support a diversity of fish-eating birds like kingfishers, fish eagles and fishing owls.

EASTERN KENYA BEACH EXPERIENCE - RECOMMENDED FOR 3 TO 6 NIGHTS STAY

The contrast of soft white sand and azure blue water lulls you into the enchantment of Kenya’s many beaches and islands. Each beachfront setting offers a unique experience to suit the personal style of every guest. Bury your toes in the soft white sand while watching soothing waves lap the shoreline. The aquamarine water of the Indian Ocean stretches as far as the eye can see, meeting the baby blue sky on the horizon. A lovely cocktail refreshes your spirit like the breeze in the swaying palm trees. The beaches and islands of Kenya melt away your every concern and rejuvenate your body, soul and mind. Below the Indian Ocean surface is a breathtaking world of marine life. Kenya is, in fact, home to some of the world’s greatest dive sites, including the second longest barrier reef on the planet. You can experience scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing, kitesurfing, boating and angling for marlin, sailfish and other large game fish. Complement your beach vacation with Swahili historic and cultural experiences in Mombasa, Lamu, Malindi, Watamu and Kilifi.