DAY 1: THE ARK LODGE, ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK
Aberdare National Park
Located northeast of Nairobi, Kenya, the Aberdare National Park was created to protect the Aberdare Mountain Range, the peaks of which soar to 3930ms. The landscape is characterised by steep forested slopes, expansive moors, and deep ravines scattered with cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams and rushing rivers. The park is inhabited by a variety of African wildlife such as: elephant, lion, spotted hyena, rhino, black leopard and the very elusive bongo antelope that lives in the high altitude bamboo forests. The park offers the perfect environment for picnics, camping in the moorlands, trout fishing in the rivers, and excellent bird watching with over 250 species of birds including hawks, eagles, sunbirds and plovers.
Day Itinerary
Morning warm welcome at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport {NBO}. Met and assisted by AMA Safaris tour manager/tour guide.
Drive to north towards to the lush foothills of the Aberdares Mountain Range to the Aberdares Country Club for lunch. After lunch transfer to The Ark (children under 7yrs not permitted, light bags only) overlooking a waterhole and salt lick where the ‘Big Five’ occasionally gather for an exhilarating night of wild encounters. The Ark comprises three decks from which numerous balconies and lounges provide superb vantage points for game viewing.
Overnight: The Ark Lodge
The Ark has four viewing areas from which to observe the ever-present animal activity at the waterhole and saltlick. There is also a ground level hide – the perfect spot for the discerning photographer. From this vantage point, photos of animals can be taken at eye-level.
As described in the book, Haven Under The Hill, Monty Brown says, “In this intimate recess one can almost, but not quite, pat the animals, hear their sounds and smell the aroma of the night. This is a magical corner, where there is close contact with the essence that tells of unexplored Africa, and where, very often, the visitor may enjoy in solitary state the beauty of it all.”
So as not to miss any animal sightings, the resident guide will buzz your room when special animals come to the waterhole. Simply throw on your provided robe and slippers, grab your camera and view nightlife at the waterhole! The sister property to The Ark the Aberdare Country Club, is a short distance away and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Activities include a game walk on our 1300 acres, golf, and tennis, horseback riding, relaxing at our health club or swimming pool, or simply enjoying the gorgeous gardens.
Basis
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 2: SWEETWATERS SERENA CAMP, OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Resting at the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountain Range, in central Kenya’s Laikipia County, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa. It is also home to the last three remaining northern white rhino in the world. Originally a working cattle ranch in colonial Kenya and now a pioneering wildlife conservancy, Ol Pejeta works to protect wildlife and provide a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees. The Conservancy is a popular safari destination and is home to the renowned ‘Big Five’ as well as a wide selection of other African animals including: zebra, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, jackal, serval, hyena, vervet monkey and many more. Visitors can enjoy an assortment of outdoor activities such as horse rides, game walks, and nocturnal game drives.
Night Game Drive
Supersize your safari experiences with a night game drive. This opportunity is not available in most wildlife conservancies, so wrap up warm and let loose that intrepid explorer inside you. Sunset is a game changer in the African wilderness – this is when the truly weird and wonderful come out to play, this is nature at its most raw. With the help of a spot light and an expert Ol Pejeta guide, you stand the chance of spotting some of Kenya’s more unusual critters. Aardvark, zorillas, bat-eared foxes, leopard, and lion hunts are just some of sights included in our guest’s campfire tales when they return.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast at the Ark, depart and drive to The Ol Pejeta Conservancy for morning game drive. The reserve is home to the only Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Kenya. Lunch and afternoon game drive at the sanctuary. Meals and overnight at Sweetwaters Serena Camp – FB
Overnight: Sweetwaters Serena Camp
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 features thirty-nine 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.
Basis
Full Board: Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 3: FAIRMONT MOUNT KENYA SAFARI CLUB, MOUNT KENYA
Mount Kenya
Rising up from the heart of the Kenyan landscape, the snow-capped Mount Kenya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is Africa’s second highest mountain reaching an impressive 5.199 metres in height, which is an awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can explore its surrounding forests, trout-filled streams and game reserve; or for the more adventurous, summit the peak. While Mount Kilimanjaro is an easier climb, Mount Kenya is more of a challenge as it has a higher technical difficulty, however, Point Lenana can be easily reached by a fit hiker. Visitors can look forward to a variety of wonderful activities such as: cave exploration, mountain climbing, camping, and game viewing. Commonly spotted wildlife include: elephant, mongoose, duiker, bushbuck, eland and over 130 bird species.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast drive to the world famous Mt. Kenya Safari Club founded by William Holden. On a clear day you will see the magnificent mountain in its full splendour. The club offers glorious views of the mountain and forest, delightful gardens, a 9-hole golf course and a splendid colonial-style ambience with roaring log fires. Arrive for lunch at your lodge. Afternoon at leisure with Optional excursions from the lodge (at extra cost). Meals and overnight at the Mount Kenya Safari Club – FB
Overnight: Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club
With magnificent views of majestic Mount Kenya, the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club Resort’s 120 luxuriously appointed hotel rooms, set in over 100 acres of landscaped gardens, offer a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure. Originally the retreat of movie star and Club founder, William Holden, the Club’s illustrious former members have included Winston Churchill and Bing Crosby.
For those who wish to spend time relaxing at the Mount Kenya resort hotel, there are many Nanyuki recreational activities available: horseback riding, golf, croquet, a bowling green, table tennis, swimming, an animal orphanage and much more. To be able to relax and appreciate the superb setting, the personal attention lavished on all our visitors, the numerous activities and superb cuisine, one night is just not enough.
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is the ideal base for a truly superb holiday in Nanyuki, Kenya. With some of the country’s finest attractions on the doorstep, visitors to the resort can enjoy an enormous range of excursions and activities without spending hours and even days travelling between each. Making it one of the most truly best hotels in Kenya
Basis:
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 4: FAIRMONT MOUNT KENYA SAFARI CLUB, MOUNT KENYA
Day Itinerary
Breakfast and leisure with optional excursions from the club (at extra cost). Meals and overnight at the Club.
Basis:
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 5: ENASHIPAI RESORT & SPA, LAKE NAIVASHA
Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is the highest of the Great Rift Valley Lakes and despite having no outlet; it is one of only two Rift Valley freshwater lakes. This beautiful lake is fringed by papyrus and acacia trees, a unique geologic landscape and supports a vast array of over 450 bird species. It serves as the main drinking hole for wildlife in the area such as zebra, eland, hippo, waterbuck, buffalo and much more. Visitors can look forward to excellent game viewing, intriguing night safaris, and boating excursions around the lake as well as to Crescent Island for spectacular bird watching opportunities. Other popular activities include: guided nature walks, horse riding, village visits and tours to neighbouring national parks.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast depart and drive to Lake Naivasha which is a freshwater Lake. Lake Naivasha is on the floor of the East African Rift Valley. Birdlife is particularly abundant (over 460 species). It is a breeding ground for cormorants all year round. You might see pelicans and spoonbills perched on the dead trees and almost certainly the fish eagle. There are two species of fish breeding in this fresh water lake, black bass and tilapia. The tilapias are ‘mouth breeders’, the various species of freshwater mouth breeders are known as “tilapia”. Large and small frogs are abundant, from the bull frog to the tiny tree toad. Lunch is at the resort. Afternoon you will have a will have a boat ride along the lake, Dinner and overnight at
Overnight: Enashipai Resort & Spa
Enashipai is a Masaai word meaning “a place of happiness”. Located within the splendour of the Great Rift Valley by the shores of Lake Naivasha, Enashipai is an award winning resort providing both leisure and conference facilities. The resort offers 135 lavish rooms adorned with afro-chic décor, state of the art Entumo Conference Centre with a capacity for 500 people, the Siyara Spa, a privately registered Maa Museum and a night club. Other conveniences include a fully equipped gym, business centre, in and outdoor playgrounds, an outdoor swimming pool and a gift shop.
The resort is located only an hour away from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, and is strategically located close to key attractions such as Mt. Longonot, Hell’s Gate and the Lake Nakuru National Park. Excursions to the Maasai Mara and other destinations can be arranged as well.
Basis
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 6: ENASHIPAI RESORT & SPA, LAKE NAIVASHA
Day Itinerary
0800hrs – Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous as the home to thousands of lesser and greater flamingo. This park also provides sanctuary for Rothschild giraffe, white and black rhino as well as the elusive leopard. 1230hrs – 1400hrs lunch will be served at the Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge. After lunch you will proceed on afternoon game viewing drives and in the late afternoon the game drive back to Naivasha.
Basis:
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed,Breakafast and Lunch
DAY 7: MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE, MARA TRIANGLE
Masai Mara
The Masai Mara together with Tanzania’s Serengeti form Africa’s most famous wildlife park, the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The image of acacia trees dotting endless grass plains epitomises Africa for many, then add a Maasai warrior and some cattle to the picture and the conversation need go no further. The undeniable highlight of the Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly the annual wildebeest migration traversing the vast plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. It is known as the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet – with more than a million animals following the rains. Large prides of lions, elephants, giraffes, gazelles and eland can also be spotted in the reserve. Aside from horse riding safaris and traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Mara plains has become almost essential.
Day Itinerary
At 0730hrs – Drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve offering wonderful scenery and plenty of game. It is perhaps the only region left in Kenya where the visitor may see animals in the same super-abundance as existed a century ago. 1230hrs – 1400hrs – Lunch enroute at Sarova Mara Camp. Afternoon game drive en-route to your lodge, visit to Masai village will be included on this day.
Overnight: Mara Serena Safari Lodge
Secreted deep within the Masai Mara, Mara Triangle. the Mara Serena Safari Lodge is the ultimate safari destination. Set high on a bush-cloaked hill, embraced by arcing vistas and washed by a sea of richly rolling grasslands, it stands centre-stage to one of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife arenas and has a ringside seat for the greatest wildlife show on Earth, the legendary migration of the wildebeest. Drawing its inspiration from the traditional Maasai cultural motif of a cluster of domed, mud-colored huts encircled by a “Boma” of brushwood, the Mara Serena offers a rare blend of raw African splendour and sumptuous sophistication. The essentially ethnic décor also draws on a vibrant colour-palette of sun-burst colours, embellished by a unique selection of Maasai art to create the look and feel of a traditional bush encampment. The lodge features individual rooms, each with their own balcony and view of eternity, a sky-blue swimming pool and a spectacular restaurant, overlooking a water hole where a fantasia of creatures collect to drink.
Basis
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
DAY 8: MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE, MARA TRIANGLE
Day Itinerary
Option at an extra cost of US$450.00 per person.{0500hrs early morning optional balloon ride with champagne-style breakfast.} Early wakeup call and embark on an early morning game drive and later return to the lodge for breakfast. Rest of the morning at leisure followed by lunch at your lodge, Afternoon game viewing drive. Dinner and overnight at
Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
Basis:
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
DAY 9: MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE,
MARA TRIANGLE
Day Itinerary
Spend another full day in Mara with morning and afternoon game drives of a full day game drive with picnic lunch afternoon visit to the Maasai village to learn more about their culture. Dinner and overnight at
Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
Basis:
Full Board:- Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
DAY 10: END OF ITINERARY
Day Itinerary
This morning, we leave behind the legendary African savannah, seen so many times in films and documentaries; the endless extensions of grassland gives way to bush land, and slowly, to the rich green vegetation around Nairobi Kenya’s colourful capital city. Afternoon free at leisure with optional activities in Narirobi. Lunch on own arrangement
Transfer Jomo Kenyatta Airport for your arrangements. ***End Of Services***
Basis:
Breakfast
Introduction