Kenya: Masai Mara, Samburu & Beach

Spend some downtime! As the largest city of East Africa, you can experience contemporary urban African life in Nairobi with colorful street markets, authentic African cuisine, and a buzzing nightlife. Discover the National Museum or explore Kenya’s historic roots with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. Feed giraffes in the Giraffe Center or get very close to baby elephants and cheetah in the David Sheldrick Center and animal orphanage. On Nairobi’s doorstep, enjoy afternoon walks and spectacular sundowners in the Ngong Hills, or head to Nairobi National Park for the the only place in the world to witness wild lions against the backdrop of skyscrapers.

A place of endless skies, dust-red plains and palm-fringed rivers! Samburu National Reserve lies on the fringes of the vast, arid desert, once known as the Northern Frontier District. It’s a great place to witness large herds of elephant, who roam the hills during the day before returning to bathe on the riverbanks in the evening. Samburu National Reserve also provides one of the few sanctuaries in Kenya for the rare northern specialist species such as the endangered Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx. Enjoy wonderful game drives and, outside the national reserve, walking safaris and visits to remote villages of the Samburu people.

Classic Africa! The Masai Mara will fulfill your dreams with its iconic, endless African landscapes of golden grass dotted with picturesque acacia trees that is home to year-round wildlife viewing: cheetah, leopard, large prides of lions, elephants, giraffe, hyena, huge Nile crocodiles, frolicking hippos and many other species. From mid July to October, enjoy the annual migration as two million wildebeests and zebras seek better pastures. Witness dramatic crossings over the crocodile-infested Mara river for one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences on earth.

Embark on an exciting self-guided exploration of this beautiful stretch known as the South Coast. Take your pick of islands, beaches, and water sports as you set off at a convenient time from your hotel. Embark on an extensive exploration of Mombasa Island for glimpses into its colonial past and a sensory feast at the local market. Stop by the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fort Jesus dating back to the 16th century. Stroll around Haller Park, a free-roaming animal sanctuary before heading over to the giant aluminum Mombasa Tusks on Moi Avenue. You could also try your hand at deep-sea fishing for black marlin as you set off from the coastal village of Watamu. Or, you could hop into an Arabian-style dhow or traditional sailboat and head to Wasini Island stopping en route for snorkeling or diving as well as dolphin and whale watching. Alternatively, you could make your way to the pristine Diani Beach for a spot of kayaking, kite surfing, jet skiing, and windsurfing, followed by lounging in the sun. Wind up your day of fun with a relaxing sunset cruise followed by a seafood dinner on board before you head back to your hotel. (Please note that these are self exploration activities; Transfers are not included. Activity costs and entrance fees will be on guest account).

Spend some downtime! As the largest city of East Africa, you can experience contemporary urban African life in Nairobi with colorful street markets, authentic African cuisine, and a buzzing nightlife. Discover the National Museum or explore Kenya’s historic roots with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. Feed giraffes in the Giraffe Center or get very close to baby elephants and cheetah in the David Sheldrick Center and animal orphanage. On Nairobi’s doorstep, enjoy afternoon walks and spectacular sundowners in the Ngong Hills, or head to Nairobi National Park for the the only place in the world to witness wild lions against the backdrop of skyscrapers.