Kenya

Kenya & Zanzibar: An Intrepid Safari in The Heart of East Africa

When

June-March

Price

From £8,800pp excl. flights
(based on 2 ppl sharing)

How long

12 nights ideal length

The original safari destination, Kenya was the first location in the world to host safaris and, still to this day, it remains one of our top picks for first-time safari-goer, and seasoned travellers alike – if anything it keeps getting better and better. Packed full of wondrous wildlife, unparalleled views and fascinating cultural experiences, Kenya has always held a special place in our hearts. So much so one of our Africa Travel Experts spent some time working at a lodge in the Mara, and knows all the best places to visit. He’s helped create this expertly-crafted 13-day adventure that will take you on a journey through this magnificent country’s wide open plains, unearthing its best-kept secrets as you go. Escape cosmopolitan life and experience true serenity whilst soaring above the savannah in your own private hot air balloon, before walking on the wild side as you track elusive black rhinos. Combining the rocky landscapes of the Samburuland, the luscious greenery of the Masaai Mara and the tranquil coast of Zanzibar, this trip is the perfect combination of the wonders of East Africa.

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Scintillating Samburu

After landing in Nairobi, you will connect straight onto a domestic flight to Kalama in the Samburu lands. Here, you will be met by your private guide and driven to your luxurious abode at Saruni Samburu, where you will spend the next two nights. Located in the heart of the Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, Saruni Samburu epitomises five-star luxury in one of the most remote regions in the world. Whilst here, you will have the opportunity to go on game drives through the conservancy, viewing the amazing wildlife that Samburuland has to offer – not to mention ‘The Big Five’, visit the conservancy’s photography hideaway and enjoy an evening of romance as you look out over the beautiful Kenyan sunset with a glass of only the finest champagne. We know it sounds like an action-packed day but don’t worry, Saruni Samburu has you covered. Voted one of the most inspiring beauty centres in Kenya, the Spa is the dream homecoming present for those looking for a spot of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Rhino Heaven

After a delicious final breakfast at Saruni Samburu, your private guide will whisk you two hours north to Kenya’s undiscovered northern territory, filled with marvellous flora and fauna. Staying at Saruni Rhino, you’ll experience a world first with a unique, once in a lifetime experience of walking rhino tracking, accompanied by an expert Saruni guide. With only two lavish bandas, this luxury lodge personifies exclusivity, whilst also providing you with an adrenaline-charged array of activities. As well as black rhinos, the Sera Conservancy has a spectacular array of other species including elephants and a plethora of birdlife, providing the ultimate experience for bird enthusiasts and a photographer’s playground. We have no doubt that this supreme experience will leave you awestruck and that it will fulfil all your wildest dreams of a luxury safari.

The Magnificence of the Masaai Mara

From the Sera, you will then fly two and a half hours to the infamous Masaai Mara region of Africa. Here, you will be picked up by your guide and taken to your next hotel, the outstanding Angama Mara. Described as somewhere between heaven and earth the Angama Mara is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the succulent greenery of the Masaai Mara. The hotel’s marvellous location high above the Masaai Mara provides you with a window onto the world with breath-taking views of the Kenyan savannah.

With three days to explore this magical region, there are plenty of activities to choose from, but our favourite? Waking up early, before the light of dawn, for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride, floating over the Mara before in total serenity as the sun comes up. You can also escape on a romantic getaway to the top of the hill where an old-world picnic set up with checked blankets, bubbly on ice and undisturbed views of the beautiful wilderness will be waiting for you. Be sure to immerse yourself in the real Masaai Mara culture too, with a trip to a neighbouring village that will open your eyes to the colourful local traditions and customs. Needless to say, after any of these activities you’ll need a well-deserved break – and what could be better than a rocking chair right outside your room, looking out onto the magnificently wild savannah and the remarkable wildlife?

Zealous Zanzibar

From the action-packed Masaai Mara to the tranquillity of Zanzibar, you’ll fly via Nairobi to the definition of the dream beach hotel. In an idyllic location on the south-east coast of Zanzibar, the Zawadi Hotel is the perfect spot to end your gripping journey through Kenya and begin your four day Zanzibar experience. Oozing pure luxury, an atmosphere of true serenity and awe-inspiring views, Zawadi Hotel is the ideal springboard to exploring this captivating island. Whilst blissful peace and relaxation may be enough for some, Zawadi also offers you many activities if lounging in the sun just doesn’t cut it for you. Explore the crystal clear waters with snorkelling and diving, head out on a wondrous nature tour through the Mangrove Forest, or discover the capital of Stone Town, rich in indigenous culture. However, what we loved the most about this gem, was the Drift Wood Dining Room which offers you an authentic cocktail of Zanzibarian spices and local cuisine. Sensational spices, unforgettable views and exclusive five-star luxury, Zanzibar is the ultimate location for travellers in search of untainted tranquillity and the perfect place to end your East African adventure.

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