Kenya Exclusive Adventure
8 Days
from
$4,960
to
$6,232
per person*
Highlights:
Kenya
(Nairobi, Laikipia, Masai Mara)
Trip Start/End:
Nairobi
/
Nairobi
Enjoy the exquisite beauty, world renown game viewing, and access to some of the best parks and accommodations Kenya has to offer. This luxury safari features camps in private reserves and top national game parks with both private and shared game viewing as well as the choice of a wide range of activities - camel and walking safaris, biking, spa, voluntourism and more - for a complete and tailor-made safari. For connoisseurs who appreciate a finer perspective, experience the spectacle of Africa in ways you never dreamed!
Includes internal flights. Kensington Tours has its own offices in Nairobi, Kenya, and Arusha, Tanzania. Our prices include the support of our own dedicated team on the ground! Another reason we deliver unbeatable value.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Nairobi
| - Welcome to East Africa
- Emergency Evacuation Insurance - Plane
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Fairmont Norfolk Hotel Fairmont (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Palacina (Suite)
|
- Day 2
- Nairobi - Laikipia
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Nairobi - Laikipia [Direct (55 mins)] - Economy - SL
- Transfer - Lodge Airport Transfer
- Park Fees - Loisaba
- Loisaba Optional Activities
- Dinner (included)
| Loisaba Lodge Lodge (Pkg) (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Laikipia
| - Loisaba Game Drives
- Lunch (included)
- Park Fees - Loisaba
- Loisaba Walking & Cultural Tours
- Dinner (included)
| Loisaba Lodge Lodge (Pkg) (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Laikipia
| - Loisaba Camel & Horseback Safaris
- Lunch (included)
- Park Fees - Loisaba
- Loisaba Leopard Hide
- Dinner (included)
| Loisaba Lodge Starbeds (Pkg) 6+ (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Laikipia - Masai Mara
| - Transfer - Lodge Airport Transfer
- Air - Laikipia - Masai Mara [Direct (45 mins)] - Economy - SL
- Transfer - Lodge Airport Transfer
- Lunch (included)
- Park Fees - Masai Mara
- Shared - Afternoon Game Drive - Elephants
- Dinner (included)
| Kensington Mara West Tent (Package) (B,L,D,AI)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Little Governor`s Camp (Package) Alt: Mara Plains (Suites - Package)
|
- Day 6
- Masai Mara
| - Shared - Morning Game Drive - Big Game
- Optional activities
- Lunch (included)
- Shared - Afternoon Game Drive - Giraffe
- Park Fees - Masai Mara
- Dinner (included)
| Kensington Mara West Tent (Package) (B,L,D,AI)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Masai Mara
| - Shared - Morning Game Drive - Leopard
- Lunch (included)
- Mara West - Development Tour - Guide
- Park Fees - Masai Mara
- Dinner (included)
| Kensington Mara West Tent (Package) (B,L,D,AI)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Masai Mara - Nairobi
| - Transfer - Lodge Airport Transfer
- Air - Masai Mara - Nairobi [Direct (45mins)] - Economy - SL
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Palacina Dinner & Airport Transfer - Dinner & Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Wildlife of Nairobi
Fairmont Norfolk Hotel
Day 1: Nairobi
In the unfortunate event of serious illness or injury, all travellers are covered by this “Flying Doctors” Insurance policy. This emergency evacuation insurance policy covers the cost of the evacuation flight back to Nairobi for treatment. This insurance policy however DOES NOT cover the cost of any medical treatment received.
A privately driven vehicle will provide you with a transfer to & from the airport.
Accommodation: Fairmont Norfolk Hotel The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel is situated in the centre of the bustling city of Nairobi, in Kenya, and has grown over time with the city. Surrounded by private tropical gardens, the 165 guest rooms and suites are comfortable and with all the necessities of home. Dining is offered at a number of onsite restaurants, and the breakfast buffet is especially delightful. Spend some time getting to know the city, and then escape to the tranquility of the hotel. At your pleasure enjoy the wonderful swimming pool facilities, the health club and a relaxing spa.
Laikipia Wildlife
Lodge
Day 2: Nairobi - Laikipia
A privately driven vehicle will provide you with a transfer to & from the airport.
This flight departs Nairobi (Wilson), and arrives in Loisaba, Laikipia, Kenya.
A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip.
Loisaba is immense: bigger than ten of the world's fully-fledged nations. You could take months exploring this land and never encounter the same view twice. We can assure you that you will not bump into anyone else and you will see the most extraordinary natural wonders - spectacular animal life that is wild, free and exhilarating to observe and a kaleidoscopic variety of birds, both endemic and migratory.
Loisaba is made for adventure: guests enjoy complete freedom to choose how they spend their time so the only barrier is your own imagination. Trek through the bush with camels, mountain bike down the escarpment, raft, horseback-ride or drive through the wild canyons of the two great rivers that span the vast property.
Accommodation: Loisaba Lodge Loisaba Lodge & its celebrated Star beds lie at the border of Laikipia and Kenya’s Northern Frontier District, not far from Mount Kenya. Its 14 rooms, divided by open-air bedrooms that rise high into the sky, a snug cottage and a house, could make one truly believe they’ve been written into a magical novel. Sixty-thousand acres of private, untapped beauty and open land, inhabited by wildlife and all sorts of characters from a jungle book, contribute to the sheer beauty of this private escape. Local warriors guard the Star Beds and cook meals over an open fire, while other times traditional barbeque is prepared for a taste of the earth. Activities are endless, from game treks on foot to rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting. This is nature’s hiding place.
Game Viewing in Loisaba
Walking Safari
Day 3: Laikipia
One of the best ways to view the wildlife at Loisaba is on a game drive. Whether you go early in the morning or late afternoon, you own informative guide will take you in an open vehicle across the open plains, through the bush or along the river bank viewing the wide variety of game, birds, plants and trees. Loisaba is a true big five destination with access to the Mugie Rhino sanctuary, regular sightings of Leopard, Lion, and Wildogs are possible!
Fishing can be arranged in the river and dams all year round. Equipment, both modern and traditional can be supplied together with drinks and a picnic.
A great way to view the stunning diversity of Loisaba is on foot. You will be accompanied by traditional Samburu guides whose knowledge of local flora, fauna, cultural and history is unmatched. For a unique cultural experience, spend an afternoon down at the traditional Masai village - a great experience see how the Masai live, watch them dance and view some of their beadwork.
Accommodation: Loisaba Lodge
Camel Trekking in Loisaba
Leopard
Day 4: Laikipia
Camel Safaris: The traditional mode of transport in the dry land of Northern Kenya and another great way to experience Loisaba. Short or longer walks can be arranged or as well as over night camel camps using lightweight tentage for the more intrepid. Or head out into the park on horseback! Experience the unique exhilaration of riding on the plains with a herd of zebra, walking gently through a graceful forest of giraffe or past a herd of elephant. On horseback it is possible to get unusually close to wildlife and our stable of horses have all been reared from birth in the bush so are quite accustomed to its presence. We do, however, require a reasonable degree of riding skill.
The leopard hide is situated at the bottom of the escarpment. Meat is placed in an acacia treein front of the hide daily and you will have the chance to spot at least three different leopards or even striped hyena. Both animals are very rarely seen on game drives; this could be your best chance of seeing them on your safari!
For those who would like to spot the leopard from a farther vantage point, you can use the telescope on the front deck of the lodge. Though the sightings are not as spectacular, you do have the added advantage of sipping a drink and watching the sunset from the deck.
Accommodation: Loisaba Lodge
Masai
Elephant Hugs
Kensington Mara West
Day 5: Laikipia - Masai Mara
A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip.
Enjoy this short flight departing Loisaba, Laikipia and arriving in Masai Mara, Kenya today. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes.
A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip.
Head out in the afternoon on a game drive with others at the lodge. Drives typically head out around 4pm when the game is becoming more active and emerging out from shade as the hot sun decends. See if you can spot a herd of elephants as they approach watering holes and rivers to cool down with a drink and mud bath.
Elephants are the largest living land animals on Earth today. When pregnant, an elephant's gestation period is 22 months, the longest of any land animal. At birth, an elephant calf typically weighs 105 kilograms (230 lb)!! They typically live for 50 to 70 years, but the oldest recorded elephant lived for 82 years. The smallest elephants, about the size of a calf or a large pig, were a prehistoric species that lived on the island of Crete. Aristotle once said the elephant was "the beast which passeth all others in wit and mind." The word "elephant" has its origins in the Greek ?λ?φας, meaning "ivory" or "elephant". Today African elephants are the largest of their species. Healthy adult elephants have no natural predators, although lions may take calves or weak individuals. They are, however, threatened by human intrusion and poaching.
Accommodation: Kensington Mara West Kensington Mara West Camp has been revamped and relocated to what is surely one of the best views in East Africa. Perched elegantly on the Ololoolo escarpment, forming the western boundary of the Masai Mara Reserve itself. This is the authentic Out of Africa experience where much of the original film itself was filmed & produced. The camp borders the remote and beautiful western edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. Kensington Mara West provides nature lovers with deluxe accommodations while experiencing the sights and sounds of an unforgettable African safari. Tents offer rustic charm surrounded by grassy fields. Chalets are perched in secluded spots on an escarpment edge overlooking the vast plains of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, giving tremendous views and a sense of private exclusion.
Lion
Masai Mara Balloon
Giraffe
Day 6: Masai Mara
Today as you set on the early morning game drive with your expert guide from your lodge. The Masai Mara Park will offer you a diverse range of animals. The park is home to the Big Five (Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and Leopard) and numerous other antelopes including Thomson's and Grant's Gazelles, Impalas, Topics, Hartebeest, Zebra and Masai Giraffe. It's also home to over 450 species of birdlife among these are vultures, marabou storks, secretary birds, hornbills, crowned cranes, ostriches, long-crested eagles and African pygmy-falcons.
Sign up for optional activities (not included in tour price); guided nature walk, hot air balloon ride, cultural tours and more. You can also arrange to volunteer for the day at Mara West and pay any associated fees directly on-site. Volunteer activities range from individual to community projects.
This afternoon's game viewing will be exciting as you are searching for game with your guide and others from the lodge. Today keep your eyes open for giraffe.
The giraffe is the tallest living terrestrial animal in the world. Its specific name refers to its camel-like face and patches of color on a light background, which bear a vague resemblance to a leopard's spots. The giraffe is also noted for its extremely long neck and legs and prominent horns. It stands 5–6 m (16–20 ft) tall and has an average weight of 1,200 kg (2,600 lb) for males and 830 kg (1,800 lb) for females. The giraffe's scattered range extends from Chad in the north to South Africa in the south and from Niger in the west to Somalia in the east. Giraffes usually inhabit savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. They prefer areas with plenty of acacia trees, which are important food sources, and can browse at heights that most other herbivores cannot reach. While adults are nearly invulnerable to predation, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas and wild dogs prey on baby calves. Giraffes commonly gather together to eat or socialize for a few hours and then roam off to graze separately. Males establish social hierarchies through "neckings", which are combat bouts where the neck is used as a weapon and they butt their necks against each other. Dominant males gain mating access to females, who bear the sole responsibility for raising the young.
Accommodation: Kensington Mara West
Leopard
Water Catchement
Day 7: Masai Mara
Early this morning you will meet up with others at the lodge for your game drive. Drives are typically done in the morning at 6:30am for a few hours. See if you can spot the ellusive leopard.
The smallest of the four "big cats" the leopard was once distributed across eastern and southern Asia and Africa, from Siberia to South Africa, but its range of distribution has decreased radically because of hunting and loss of habitat. It is now chiefly found in sub-Saharan Africa. Because of its declining range and population, it is listed as a "Near Threatened" species. Compared to other members of the Felidae family, the leopard has relatively short legs and a long body with a large skull. It is similar in appearance to the jaguar, but is smaller and more slightly built. The species' success in the wild is in part due to its opportunistic hunting behavior, its adaptability to habitats, its ability to run at speeds approaching 58 kilometres per hour (36 mph), its unequaled ability to climb trees even when carrying a heavy carcass, and its notorious ability for stealth. The leopard consumes virtually any animal that it can hunt down and catch. These stealthy animals are one of the prize sightings you may see in Masai Mara.
After experiencing Kenya’s natural wonders, take some time to give back to its people, the Masai. Depending on the current needs within the community, you can participate in a variety of development activities focused on improving the health and education of the Masai people. You will meet with the manager on-site to choose a program to support, arrange your visit, and meet those you are helping.
Programs include: installing water catchment system for clean water or visit local school to donate supplies or sponsor a child. Visit the community clinic and help new mothers and their newborns or donate a "Healthy Start" kit complete with a baby blanket, baby oil, baby powder, baby wipes, soap, Vaseline, baby cloths, a sanitary bottle and baby formula – to give a young child a healthy new start on life. You could also barter and buy a cow or goat for a widow or struggling family. There are many opportunities to give back to the local community. Programs range from $50-500 donation. The guide fee for this is $50pp. All donations and fees are paid on-site, directly to the program coordinators to ensure your money goes farther to help those in need.
Accommodation: Kensington Mara West Day 8: Masai Mara - Nairobi
A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip.
This short domestic flight departs from Masai Mara and arrives at Wilson Airport in Nairoba, Kenya today. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes.
A privately driven vehicle will provide you with a transfer to & from the airport.
Stop by Palacina's Moonflower Restaurant and Lounge for a three-course a'la carte meal. Take advantage of the free wireless internet connection and lounge before catching your flight tonight. Consistently rated among the top dining establishments in Nairobi, The Moonflower embodies the finest of Kenyan cuisine & hospitality. The subtle fusion of Mediterranean & Swahili cultures is evident in the contemporary menu featuring the very best of Kenyan produce. The Moonflower is a 50-seat a' la Carte restaurant featuring a live Jazz band as well as background Jazz music. You will receive a transfer to the airport after dinner.
Accommodation: Depart Depart from Nairobi international airport - end of itinerary.
Accommodations
Fairmont Norfolk Hotel
Fairmont Norfolk Hotel - Nairobi
The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel is situated in the centre of the bustling city of Nairobi, in Kenya, and has grown over time with the city. Surrounded by private tropical gardens, the 165 guest rooms and suites are comfortable and with all the necessities of home. Dining is offered at a number of onsite restaurants, and the breakfast buffet is especially delightful. Spend some time getting to know the city, and then escape to the tranquility of the hotel. At your pleasure enjoy the wonderful swimming pool facilities, the health club and a relaxing spa.
Loisaba Lodge
Loisaba Lodge - Guest Room
Loisaba Lodge - Laikipia
Loisaba Lodge & its celebrated Star beds lie at the border of Laikipia and Kenya’s Northern Frontier District, not far from Mount Kenya. Its 14 rooms, divided by open-air bedrooms that rise high into the sky, a snug cottage and a house, could make one truly believe they’ve been written into a magical novel. Sixty-thousand acres of private, untapped beauty and open land, inhabited by wildlife and all sorts of characters from a jungle book, contribute to the sheer beauty of this private escape. Local warriors guard the Star Beds and cook meals over an open fire, while other times traditional barbeque is prepared for a taste of the earth. Activities are endless, from game treks on foot to rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting. This is nature’s hiding place.
Kensington Mara West
Mara West Chalet View
Kensington Mara West - Masai Mara
Kensington Mara West Camp has been revamped and relocated to what is surely one of the best views in East Africa. Perched elegantly on the Ololoolo escarpment, forming the western boundary of the Masai Mara Reserve itself. This is the authentic Out of Africa experience where much of the original film itself was filmed & produced. The camp borders the remote and beautiful western edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. Kensington Mara West provides nature lovers with deluxe accommodations while experiencing the sights and sounds of an unforgettable African safari. Tents offer rustic charm surrounded by grassy fields. Chalets are perched in secluded spots on an escarpment edge overlooking the vast plains of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, giving tremendous views and a sense of private exclusion.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Kenya
PASSPORT/VISA
A Passport valid for at least six months and visas are required for both Canadian and US citizens. Visa may be purchased on arrival at the airport. Single entry visa is $50 per person, payable in cash, new bills (no credit cards). Visas may also be obtained in advance through a visa service or through the embassy directly. Processing generally takes 5-7 working days.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the embassy of Kenya for the most up to date visa information.
Nairobi (NBO) (Jomo Kenyatta International) is 16km (10 miles) southeast of the city. Mombasa (MBA) (Moi International) is 13km (8 miles) west of the city. NOTE: Only newly printed USD currency and local currency will be accepted in East Africa, any USD currency printed without the new security measures will not be accepted.
HEALTH
Health insurance is essential. Guests of Kensington Tours are covered by East African Flying Doctor Services included in the tour price. This coverage guarantees that any member injured or ill while on safari will be airlifted back to Nairobi to the international hospital. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/kenya.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital - Nairobi. Language - Swahili is the national language and English is the official language. There are over 42 ethnic languages spoken, including Kikuyu and Luo. Religion - Mostly traditional but there is a sizeable Christian population (both Catholic and Protestant) and a small Muslim community. Time - GMT + 3. Electricity - 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are UK-type square three-pin. Bayonet-type light sockets exist in Kenya. Telephone - Country code: 254 (followed by 20 for Nairobi, 41 for Mombasa and 51 for Nakuru). Mobile phone coverage is widespread. There are Internet cafes in major cities and hotels.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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