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Kenya Highlights

8 Days

$	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr
4ppl	2,643	2,740	3,274	3,274	3,274	3,058	2,890	3,105	3,286	3,296	3,286	2,818
2ppl	3,385	3,537	4,072	4,072	4,072	3,856	3,687	3,902	4,080	4,089	4,080	3,611

Highlights: Kenya (Nairobi, Samburu, Laikipia, Naivasha, Masai Mara)

Trip Start/End: Nairobi / Nairobi

* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

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Kenya is a land that will captivate your heart, stir your soul, and inspire your mind.

Thrill in the sights and sounds of a country with abundant diversity. Trek desertscapes and lush green hills of the Great Rift Valley, one of the world’s natural wonders, scouting lions, elephants, giraffe and rhinos. Your personal guide will take you out each day through some of the best game parks in all of Kenya. In the evenings, luxury tented camps and lodges offer a refined and serene setting to contemplate your day.

Explore Samburu National Park for sightings of the Grevy’s zebra, the largest of the zebra species that is unique to the region. Take a picturesque drive through idyllic Kenya and head for Laikipia, where you can visit the Sweetwaters Chimapnzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya this extraordinary species can be seen. Head for Lake Naivasha and boat across to Crescent Island to get you up close with some portly hippos and all variety of birdlife. Cross into Maisa Mara for the best game viewing in the entire world. Survey open grassy plains and watering holes for lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants. Take in the spectacle of the annual migration of Thompson’s gazelles, zebras and wildebeests, a highlight of any safari.

Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.

Overview

Day	Activities	Hotel
Day 1 Nairobi	Emergency Evacuation Insurance - Plane Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver Welcome to East Africa	Country Lodge Standard (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Southern Sun (standard) Alt: Serena (standard)
Day 2 Nairobi - Samburu	Transfer - Nairobi - Samburu [6 Hour Drive] - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Afternoon Game Drive Park Fees - Samburu Dinner (included)	Samburu Simba Lodge Standard Lodge (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Samburu Wilderness Lodge (lodge) Alt: Sarova Shaba (Standard)
Day 3 Samburu	Morning Game Drive - Grévy’s Zebra - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Afternoon Game Drive - Gerenuk Park Fees - Samburu Dinner (included)	Samburu Simba Lodge Standard Lodge (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 4 Samburu - Laikipia	Transfer - Samburu - Laikipia [2 Hour Drive] - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Chimpanzee Sanctuary Park Fees - Laikipia Dinner (included)	Sweetwaters Serena Tent (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Lewa Safari Camp (Tent (Package))
Day 5 Laikipia - Naivasha	Transfer - Laikipia - Naivasha [5 Hour Drive] - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Optional activities Dinner (included)	Sopa Lodge Lodge (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Naivasha Simba (lodge)
Day 6 Naivasha - Masai Mara	Transfer - Naivasha - Masai Mara [5 to 6 Hour Drive] - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Afternoon Game Drive Park Fees - Masai Mara Dinner (included)	Kensington Mara West Tent (Full Board) (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: Kichwa Tembo (classic tent)
Day 7 Masai Mara	Morning Game Drive 2 - 4X4 - Kenya Lunch (included) Afternoon Game Drive - Big 5 Park Fees - Masai Mara Dinner (included)	Kensington Mara West Tent (Full Board) (B,L,D) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 8 Masai Mara - Nairobi	Transfer - Masai Mara - Nairobi [6 hours ] - 4X4/Guide - Kenya Private - Souvenir shopping Kensington Office Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver	Depart
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Itinerary

- Wildlife of Nairobi
- Country Lodge
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: Country Lodge
The Country Lodge Nairobi is owned and operated by the Fairview Hotel Group and provides guests with excellent accommodations options at a very reasonable price. The property is located in the Upperhill neighbourhood of Nairobi, an area of the city that is rather lively, boasting a number of picturesque gardens, ethnically inspired restaurants and a wide range of activities. Guests at the Country Lodge can be assured that they will have a safe, clean and quiet place to rest their head during their stay in Nairobi. Throughout the hotel a wireless Internet connection is made available for usage. Guest will always wake up to a quality, hot breakfast before heading out to explore this dynamic Kenyan capital city.
- Samburu
- Simba Samburu
Day 2: Nairobi - Samburu
This morning you'll meet up with your guide and head off to Samburu National park. The drive from the urban center of Nairobi, through the fertile highlands, the semi-arid frontier of Kenya is breath-taking and a great way to see the countryside. The drive will be about 5 to 6 hours.
Your skilled guide will take you on an afternoon game-viewing drive through the sandy Samburu desert region.
Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge
Samburu Simba Lodge is a relatively new lodge, situated in the Buffalo Springs National Reserve, part of the larger Samburu system. Removed from the beaten path of topical tourist circuit, the lodge is ideally located on the banks of the Uaso Nyiro River, the lifeblood of this arid area. All rooms and central areas have views of the river and the nearby waterhole, where large herds of elephants and other wildlife come to drink. The lodge has two luxury swimming pools, a restaurant and bar, curio shop and expansive conference facilities. Enjoy unobstructed views of game along the river banks and the waterhole from either your room terraces, at the lodge, or from restaurant.
- Grevy's Zebra
- Gerenuk
Day 3: Samburu
Early this morning you'll meet up with your guide for your game drive. One of the amazing things about Samburu is that you'll most likely see species that are unique to this region. The Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi), also known as the imperial zebra, is the largest species of zebra. It is found in the Samburu area as well as parts of Ethiopia. Compared to other zebras, it is taller, has larger ears, and its stripes are narrower. Grévy's zebra is considered endangered, partly due to hunting for its skin, which fetches a high price on the world market. It also suffers habitat destruction, human disturbances at water holes and competition with domestic grazing animals. There are estimated to be 17.000 Grévy's zebra still living in the wild. With luck, you'll see some today!
Another species unique to the Samburu region is the gerenuk. With luck, you'll see some while on your game drive. It's amazing to watch them stand on their hind legs to eat! The gerenuk (also known as Waller's gazelle) is a long-necked species of antelope found in dry bushy shrub and steppe in East Africa. The word gerenuk comes from the Somali language, meaning “giraffe-necked”, and leads to its other common name, the giraffe-necked antelope.
Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge
- Laikipia Wildlife
- Jane Goodall and her chimps
- Sweetwaters Tented Camp
Day 4: Samburu - Laikipia
This morning you will leave Samburu and drive to Laikipia. Along the way you will see amazing scenery as you drive through rural Kenya, spot Samburu villages and more as you drive. This drive takes about 2 hours.
You will have the option of visiting the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary today. The sanctuary is the only place in Kenya where this highly endangered and remarkably intelligent species can be seen.

The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary opened in 1993 in a negotiated agreement between the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Jane Goodall Institute. Here the animals are carefully nursed back to health and integrated into families. The chimpanzees live in two large groups separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River. Watch them romp and play, visit the local shop, or even sponsor a chimp!

Visitors to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy have free access to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which is open daily from 9:00am to 10:30am and 3pm to 4:30pm.
Accommodation: Sweetwaters Serena
A sheltered oasis, clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine calm of the private Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweetwaters Tented Camp offers a charming blend of under-canvas ambiance and safari luxury. Located on the plains of Mount Kenya, the camp features39 luxury tents, each with its own private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager's house of this once colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. Also within the house is the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, built in the style of a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole and offers unrivalled wildlife-watching.
- Naivasha
- Sopa Naivasha
Day 5: Laikipia - Naivasha
Your guide will drive you from Laikipia to Lake Naivasha, through the rift valley. This drive will take about 5 hours.
Sign up for optional activities on-site. Activities include Crescent Island boat tour, hiking and day trip excursions to Mt Longonot and Hell's Gate, or simply walk along the lakeshore and relax at your lodge.

*Activity fees vary and are paid on-site to the lodge and/or park authority.
Accommodation: Sopa Lodge
Like an African castle in the sky, Sopa Lodge Naivasha spins wondrous safaris from natural treasures below the golden Kenyan sun. It is situated on the southern shores of Naivasha, the largest freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. Let this dazzling resort of 21 cottages prepare you for mouth-dropping silence. Feast on the succulent meats and preparations of the hotel’s talented chefs. Allow your eyes to indulge in the scenery and wildlife that draws so many to visit this hotel, built for open views of nature’s activities at their most untouched. Make sure to wander around the compound. You will be enchanted by the fine architecture, cathedral ceilings, and grand windows. Stroll around the gardens, and take a swim. It’s hard to leave this heavenly escape.
- Masai
- Kensington Mara West
Day 6: Naivasha - Masai Mara
Your guide will drive you from Naivasha to Masai Mara. This drive will take about 5 to 6 hours. Drive times may be longer in the rainy season (April to early May and November). Stop for refreshments and souvenir shopping at roadside stands along the way or head straight to the park. Enjoy game viewing as you enter Masai Mara and drive to your camp.
This afternoon's game viewing will be exciting as you are searching for game with your private guide and driver. The leopard is difficult to see as it moves fast and is very shy. If you're lucky there is a good chance to spot them around water holes or up in a tree after a long, hot day.
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.
- Hippo
Day 7: Masai Mara
Masai Mara is named after the traditional inhabitants (Maasai) and the Mara River. At some point during your stay in the Mara, you'll drive by the river, which is a great place to spot wildlife. This area is a photographer's delight where with any luck you'll be able to take amazing pictures of the hippos and elephants in the water.
On today’s afternoon game drive the choice is up to you: search for the Big 5 or expand your horizons to discover something different. Masai Mara not only has a rich mix of animals – it also has an incredible array of bird life with almost 450 different species.
Accommodation: Kensington Mara West
- Kenya Souvenir Stand
Day 8: Masai Mara - Nairobi
Transfer between Mara park and Nairobi by road. Includes stops at souvenir shops and refreshment stands. One hour of road is badly potholed.
Includes opportunity to visit local handicraft markets to shop for souvenirs.
Before leaving that night, stop by the Kensington office for free use of Internet and lounge. If you like, we can make reservations for dinner at a local restaurant as well. Please let us know in advance and if you are vegetarian.
A privately driven vehicle will provide you with a transfer to & from the airport.
Accommodation: Depart
Depart from Nairobi international airport - end of itinerary.

Accommodations

- Country Lodge
- Bedroom
Country Lodge - Nairobi
The Country Lodge Nairobi is owned and operated by the Fairview Hotel Group and provides guests with excellent accommodations options at a very reasonable price. The property is located in the Upperhill neighbourhood of Nairobi, an area of the city that is rather lively, boasting a number of picturesque gardens, ethnically inspired restaurants and a wide range of activities. Guests at the Country Lodge can be assured that they will have a safe, clean and quiet place to rest their head during their stay in Nairobi. Throughout the hotel a wireless Internet connection is made available for usage. Guest will always wake up to a quality, hot breakfast before heading out to explore this dynamic Kenyan capital city.
- More information
- Simba Samburu
Samburu Simba Lodge - Samburu
Samburu Simba Lodge is a relatively new lodge, situated in the Buffalo Springs National Reserve, part of the larger Samburu system. Removed from the beaten path of topical tourist circuit, the lodge is ideally located on the banks of the Uaso Nyiro River, the lifeblood of this arid area. All rooms and central areas have views of the river and the nearby waterhole, where large herds of elephants and other wildlife come to drink. The lodge has two luxury swimming pools, a restaurant and bar, curio shop and expansive conference facilities. Enjoy unobstructed views of game along the river banks and the waterhole from either your room terraces, at the lodge, or from restaurant.
- More information
- Sweetwaters Tented Camp
Sweetwaters Serena - Laikipia
A sheltered oasis, clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine calm of the private Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweetwaters Tented Camp offers a charming blend of under-canvas ambiance and safari luxury. Located on the plains of Mount Kenya, the camp features39 luxury tents, each with its own private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager's house of this once colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. Also within the house is the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, built in the style of a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole and offers unrivalled wildlife-watching.
- More information
- Sopa Lodge Naivasha
- Sopa Naivasha - Pool
Sopa Lodge - Naivasha
Like an African castle in the sky, Sopa Lodge Naivasha spins wondrous safaris from natural treasures below the golden Kenyan sun. It is situated on the southern shores of Naivasha, the largest freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. Let this dazzling resort of 21 cottages prepare you for mouth-dropping silence. Feast on the succulent meats and preparations of the hotel’s talented chefs. Allow your eyes to indulge in the scenery and wildlife that draws so many to visit this hotel, built for open views of nature’s activities at their most untouched. Make sure to wander around the compound. You will be enchanted by the fine architecture, cathedral ceilings, and grand windows. Stroll around the gardens, and take a swim. It’s hard to leave this heavenly escape.
- More information
- Kensington Mara West
- Tent
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.
- More information

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.

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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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30 May 2012 / COMPASS EDITOR

Kenya Highlights

Overview

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi

Day 2: Nairobi - Samburu

Day 3: Samburu

Day 4: Samburu - Laikipia

Day 5: Laikipia - Naivasha

Day 6: Naivasha - Masai Mara

Day 7: Masai Mara

Day 8: Masai Mara - Nairobi

Accommodations

Country Lodge - Nairobi

Samburu Simba Lodge - Samburu

Sweetwaters Serena - Laikipia

Sopa Lodge - Naivasha

Kensington Mara West - Masai Mara

Travel Info

Travel tips of Kenya

Trip Map

Request a Quote

What's Included:

What's not Included:

Trip Terms & Conditions

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