THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

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  • United Kingdom
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TRIP IDEA & SAMPLE ITINERARY FOR YOUR TOUR IN LAMU

When beach vacationing in Lamu, we recommend combining your safari to Masai Mara for the wildebeest migration, Amboseli, Samburu or Laikipia - Lewa, Nakuru, Elementaita, and Naivasha - Great Rift Valley Lakes. You can also climb the 2nd highest mountain in Africa: Mount Kenya.

You may optionally extend out to other wilderness areas of Meru, Chyulu Hills or Tsavo East - Tsavo West for an offbeat wildlife tour.

You can end your vacation at the Indian Ocean for a beach vacation and Swahili cultural tour on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar, Watamu, or Mombasa.

Best Safari Planning Ideas & Trip Experiences For Kenya

Below are guide references on how to plan each of the below safari experience in Kenya. Alternatively, go to the summary section for a quick overview of each trip planning experience.

1. How To Plan Kenya Safari Trips? (Summary)

2. Wildlife Safari Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

3. Private & Tailor-Made Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

4. Honeymoon Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

5. Family Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

6. Luxury Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

7. Photo Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

8. Cultural Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

9. Primate Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

10. Hike, Trek & Bush Walk Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

11. Birding Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

12. Horseback Riding Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

13. Balloon Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

14. Wedding Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

15. Bush & Beach Safaris Trip Planning Guide For Kenya

NAIROBI

On your arrival in Kenya, we recommend spending one or two nights in Nairobi to unwind but also to give you an opportunity to experience this diverse and thriving city. The metropolis offers many local attractions where you can learn about the history of the pioneer city and the cultures that make Kenya a unique destination for any type of traveler, as well as partake of international restaurants, shop, markets in a vibrant afro-urban scene.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Nairobi

Hotel Tier 1 - Giraffe Manor

If you seek the graceful giraffe during your bush tour of Kenya, a stay at Giraffe Manor will give you one-on-one and once-in-a-life-time experiences with these incredible animals. The hotel maintains much of the original 1932 design while offering you all of the modern amenities you require for your stay. What truly sets Giraffe Manor apart from other travel accommodations in Kenya, though, are the resident Rothschild Giraffe that roam freely on the property and you don’t need to worry about trying to sight these creatures on its grounds as they regularly stick their heads through open windows and over balconies to garner feed pellets from AfricanMecca guests.

Hotel Tier 2 - Palacina Nairobi

The Palacina Nairobi is residentially located for your historical and cultural tours in Nairobi, yet the location borders the Nairobi Arboretum Park and the presidential greens of the State House means that you are not disturbed by the city noise or air pollution from the traffic vehicle. You may choose from 14 boutique suites, including 2 penthouse suites, and, for travelers on extended business in East Africa, the hotel offers the choice of one, two or three-bedroom apartments. The standard amenities in the suites and apartments include internet access, satellite television with DVD player and mini bar. Suites are designed with a comfortable and spacious floor plan that includes living room, full private bathroom and private balcony, Jacuzzi tub and front-facing balcony.

Hotel Tier 3 - Fairview Hotel

Despite being sited in Upper Hill close to the heart of the buzzing Kenyan city of Nairobi, Fairview Hotel is a tranquil property laid out among acres of lush greenery. Colonial style, two story buildings are scattered around offering guests on their Nairobi stopover tour a peaceful oasis, secluded from the pulsating activities of the city. A value accommodation, the Fairview Hotel is primarily suited to business travelers, but also a small number of leisure lodgers who are passing through the city on their safari adventures in Kenya.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF NAIROBI

GREAT RIFT VALLEY LAKES OF NAKURU & NAIVASHA

Proceed to the alkaline Lake Nakuru and freshwater Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley for the next two nights. Lake Nakuru National Park is a must for your central Kenya tour. See firsthand one to two million lesser and greater flamingos dip their curved bills into the warm, soda water of the lake to extract their favorite food -- special algae that are found in abundance in the unique lake. The most prominent wildlife in the park includes 56 mammals and 450 bird species. Exploring Lake Nakuru Park is an opportunity to see many of Africa's most prized fauna in a natural and beautiful setting. Resting at an elevation of 1890 meters is the serene freshwater Lake Naivasha, a superb oasis to include on your exploratory holiday in Kenya. Just beyond its shores are papyrus swamps, acacia woodlands, forests and unique geologic features that are remnants of the area’s volcanic past. The nutrient-rich soil is fertilized by an abundance of water, including the Gilgil and Malewa Rivers, to create an ecosystem that is known around the world for a diverse avian presence, as well as game animals. More than 450 bird species have been identified including varied small and large mammals. Lake Naivasha is a RAMSAR site, a designation that reflects the ecological importance of the wetlands around the lake.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha

Safari Tier 1 - Loldia House

Just less than three hours travel by road or twenty minutes by air from Nairobi is a place that gives you a taste for Kenyan country living – Loldia House. Enjoy a personalized holiday in central Kenya at the 6500-acre working farm set on the north-west shore of Lake Naivasha, a freshwater oasis in the magnificent Great Rift Valley. The colonial masonry architecture reflects an early settler style that luxuriously extends into the indoor common areas and 9 guest rooms. The four double en-suite rooms in the Main House feature muted color palettes that brilliantly accentuate the understated elegance of dressing tables, thatch and corrugated roofs, nightstands with lamps and chairs. Most rooms are positioned to provide views of the wild grounds and lake upon wakening, and private outdoor verandahs with lounging chairs invite quiet relaxation and conversation with a glass of wine. Spend the morning with an experienced guide that takes you to see hippos, zebras, elands, giraffes and other large mammals.

Safari Tier 2 - Flamingo Hill Camp

Located at the border of Lake Nakuru National Park, Flamingo Hill Camp, a deluxe accommodation, gives you a front row seat to one of the most spectacular avi-fauna performances in the world! Each year, one to two million flamingos arrive at the lake to feed on the algae that flourishes in the warm alkaline waters. Watching the long-legged, pink-plumed lesser and greater flamingos wade around looking for food is interesting, but when all these birds take flight, the show really begins! The spectacle has made Lake Nakuru a favorite East African travel destination for wildlife photographers and nature filmmakers. While back at the camp, you are offered 25 guest tents in a homely, welcoming setting to ensure you have a comfortable and serene tour of Lake Nakuru with AfricanMecca, and the attentive staff are very helpful and responsive to your needs. Guest tents are situated amidst landscaped campgrounds with views of the surrounding flora, trees and valley.

Safari Tier 3 - Elsamere

Elsamere is the one accommodation in Lake Naivasha that has an air of history and preservation about it. This is home where Joy and George Adamson spent their vacations and the later years of their life. Converted into a Great Rift Valley accommodation for value guest traveling in East Africa, Elsamere revives “Born Free” memories of the 1960’s and is famous for the European-style high teas that are served even today. The property houses a museum that preserves several items belonging to the Adamsons such as paintings, literature and other mementos from the movie that was adapted from the novel Elsa the Lioness. 10 rooms are located in single-story cottages with a portioned patio, overlooking the lake. Some of the lodge's rooms have a double bed while others have twin and triple beds making Elsamere an ideal budget accommodation for families sharing rooms. The cottages have names that bring back memories of Joy Adamson's pets, Pati (rock hyrax), Pippa (cheetah), Penny (leopard) and Elsa, the legendary lioness.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF NAKURU & NAIVASHA

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

AMBOSELI

You will proceed to Amboseli for the next two nights. Amboseli National Park is a majestic landscape where predator and prey interactions unfolds 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

LAMU

Proceed to Lamu Island for your seaside vacation for the next four nights. Lamu is a distinctive beach and cultural travel destination in Africa. With a history that dates back to the 14th century, the island represents a time when life was much simpler, and you will quickly forget the stress and hectic pace of life back home. In 2001, the old town of Lamu was honored with the designation of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO to signify the significant global cultural asset found in what has become the oldest settled Swahili town south of the Sahara. The island is situated in the archipelago of the same name and shares the area with several other islands, including the two other larger islands of Pate and Manda. Access to these islands is primarily by boat, as only a small channel separates the islands from mainland Kenya. The coral reefs and habitats of the archipelago represent significant natural treasures, some of which are protected by the Kiunga Marine National Reserve. Common ecosystems of the region are mangrove forests, coral reefs and soft sand beaches. Migratory birds rely on the islands for nesting grounds together with sea turtles who are also frequent visitors and subject of many conservation projects. Below the water, guests will find a dizzying variety of marine life, from the smallest sea creature to the giant game fish that taunt every angler who visits Lamu Island. At the edge of Shela Village is a stretch of sand that covers more than seven miles till Kipungani. The pace in Shela is even more relaxed than Lamu old town, and you will find yourself wishing that you never have to leave. For the times when you want to escape even further, visit Kiwayu Island and Manda Island to get a feel for the life of a true castaway.

Recommended Accommodation Options In Lamu

Beach Tier 1 - Manda Bay

Lamu is a honeymooner and romantic escapaders’ Kenyan paradise! Your luxuriant and barefoot beach holiday on Lamu Island begins at Manda Bay, an exclusive rustic accommodation that eloquently combines relaxed coastal living with outstanding service and heavenly cuisine. The 16 banda cottages are built from local materials and feature a design palette drawn from the oceanic setting of the islands of Lamu that includes large raw timbers, intricately hand-carved furniture and thatch roofs, all gracefully enhanced with soft blues and greens encompassing a hint of warm coral color. For your seaside vacation on the Indian Ocean, your choice of cottage determines how close you are to the beach, with Beach Front Cottages being the closest and enjoying the best views of the ocean with only a few steps between you and the sand. In addition to the views, these cottages also allow you to receive the soothing sound of the waves lapping at the sand, and you may even be able to dangle your feet in the water from your veranda. Set further away from the beach and just behind the Beach Front Cottages are the Sea View Cottages, and nestled within the lush tropical vegetation are the family-friendly, more affordable Garden Cottages. All guest cottages include mosquito netting, ceiling fan, small refrigerator, en-suite bathroom with double vanity and private veranda. Manda Bay provides electricity to guest cottages 24 hours per day, but for environmental reasons, the main building only has power for eight hours each day.

Beach Tier 2 - Kizingoni Beach Houses

The unsurpassed way to spend some quality time with family and friends is to take a beach vacation in Kenya at one of the most beautiful Lamu locales on the Indian Ocean. The Kizingoni Beach Houses are the accommodations to choose because they offer you exclusive, private villas, complete in every way with kitchenettes, living areas, dining areas, a swimming pool, swing daybeds, covered garden areas and few with play areas. Every house also has a designated speedboat and crew to take you around the islands for any activities you would like to book. The cottages at Kizingoni Beach are deluxe accommodations so you can be assured of quality amenities and friendly service though you might have to pay for added frills i.e. from fine wines to fuel for boat use. Kizingoni is sprawled over 24 acres of oceanside property on a secluded beach with soft golden sands contrasting with the deep blue water of the ocean amidst coastal vegetation of coconut and doum palms. The house-resort also has its own sample grove and vegetable patch and sources its fresh seafood right out of the Indian Ocean. Wind energy and solar panels via a battery inverter system are installed to generate power and hot water. Kizingoni Beach Houses have 7 villas in all. You can book the beach villas you will need for your seaside trip in Africa depending on the number of your guests. The rooms all have attached bathrooms while the number of bedrooms and size of the swimming pool might vary from house to house. All of them have the Swahili baraza sitting area for family conversations.

Beach Tier 3 - Mike’s Camp

Mike’s Camp on Kiwayu Island is a rustic, modest accommodation that gives you access to the sand, water and surf for your relaxed beach vacation in Kenya. Located in the Lamu Archipelago, the island is a coastal hideaway for diverse seaside travelers in Kenya who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the more heaving African beach resorts without sacrificing the iconic coral reef, turquoise water and soft sandy beaches that have made Lamu a desired destination for discerning beach lovers around the world. The simplicity of the camp extends to every part of the operations, from supplies brought in by donkey to wind and solar generated power, and the 7 guest bandas are constructed of natural materials and situated on top of the sand dunes. The views from your open-sided banda are of the Indian Ocean or mangrove creek and you are well-spaced from your neighbor for an ideally secluded beach holiday in Lamu with AfricanMecca. A private veranda with hammock and day beds gives you a relaxing place to read, nap or watch the oceanic motion. Your king-size bed is canopied with mosquito netting to allow you to slumber safely and quietly while gentle tropical breezes keep you cool and comfortable. The “cast-away” ambience of your banda continues in the ensuite bathroom that features bucket showers, wash basin and water container to help you stay refreshed.

TOUR EXPERIENCES OF LAMU

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.

CONTACT AND TALK TO OUR BEACH EXPERTS TODAY TO KICK-START YOUR TOUR PLANNING PROCESS

Request Kenya Custom Or Tailor-Made Beach Pricing Based On Your Specific Travel Dates At Your Preferred Beach Tier Accommodation

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WHERE TO STAY IN LAMU
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WHERE TO STAY IN LAMU

For boutique lodgings, we recommend Majlis Resort and Manda Bay while Kizingoni Beach Houses, Kipungani or even Kizingo Lodge are excellent mid-range experiences. Kijani Hotel is a budget option.

TOUR LAMU ATTRACTIONS
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TOUR LAMU ATTRACTIONS

Your seaside and cultural escapade to Lamu will be unforgettable. Tour of the old town, snorkeling, dhow safari, deep sea fishing, active watersports such kitesurfing, waterskiing are all available.

BEST TIME TO VISIT LAMU
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BEST TIME TO VISIT LAMU

January to March are the warmest months while cooler temperatures occur in July to September. In April and May, the long rainy season arrives and ends by June with short rains from November.

AFRICANMECCA REVIEWS

What are our Customers saying about us? READ MORE REVIEWSfive star africanmecca safaris reviews

  • AfricanMecca Safari could not have been more helpful through the entire process of planning our trip to Kenya. Our trip to Lamu (a suggestion by Raza) was incredible, and Kizingo is a perfect place to stay there. All in all, we had an amazing time in Kenya.
    Jordan Klein & Anna Kohanski - New York, United States
  • Lamu was fabulous. hot and sunny and we again were delighted with our accommodation. Everything was run smoothly and without any hitches and we are most grateful for a truly memorable holiday of a life time. You organised everything efficiently which made life so easy for us.
    Angela Cook - London, United Kingdom
  • I had just the BEST time in Lamu - quite probably the holiday of my life - and am determined to go back in November. I have to say, the holiday was made by Altaf's dedication to what I needed - he worked very hard to ensure I got the full ten night stay at Kipungani, and I was impressed to say the least. Many thanks - I'll be back.
    Jeremy King, Senior Producer GMTV - London, United Kingdom
  • Raza, I have returned from the trip to Kenya you arranged. It went quite well and all of your advice about hotels etc was correct and prevented me from doing things less than optimal. I really enjoyed Lamu; it is one of the best beaches I have seen.
    Dr Thomas Walshe - Boston, Massachusetts - United States
  • Raza, I want to tell you that all aspects of our travel arrangements with you ran smoothly. Our visit to Lamu was most enjoyable and a pleasant contrast to the highlands. I will unreservedly recommend AfricanMecca to others.
    Peter Moody - Cape Town, South Africa
  • I wanted to email you to say how well all your arrangements came together for Lamu - Peponi Hotel. The logistics worked very well, the venues fulfilled all expectations - the whole experience was splendid.
    Robyn Taylor - Brisbane, Australia
  • Lamu Palace was really quite exotic, with again wonderful people, in great location, I felt like I was in the movie Casablanca. I will recommend your company to anyone I know travelling to Kenya. In deep appreciation...
    Lynne Crawford - Boston, Massachusetts - United States

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