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Our African journey was conducted by Wildlife Safari where we were met by a representative at Nairobi Airport and taken to the Serena Hotel for our first overnight stay. The hotel is an eclectic mix of old British colonial Architecture fused with African decor. I certainly knew that I was now in Africa and was looking forward to the start of this epic journey.
The following day we embarked in our 4WD vehicle with our guide through the rich farming highlands of Kenya where we entered Samburu Game Reserve and spotted our first species of wildlife. Our first introduction was a who’s who of the animal kingdom with the likes of the noble giraffe being in abundance with the zebras, elephants and bird life stealing the show.
We continued on along the banks of the Uaso Nyiro River to our classic safari camp with luxury appointments at Samburu Intrepids. Lunch was served late afternoon game viewing drive again produced the sighting of the elusive leopard and the sprint king Mr cheetah.
Samburu is a small but unique sanctuary which houses a large number of assorted wildlife whilst being set in a semi-arid landscape. Species found here cannot be found in the southern sanctuaries including the Waller gazelle and Beisa Oryx.
We set out the next morning for our early morning game drive with a private visit to an authentic Samburu Village. We were welcomed by singing and dancing from the village women on arrival before being shown around the camp by the village chief. It was a lovely experience being able to interact with these fascinating people. We returned back to camp before heading out for another late safari drive.
The next day saw us drive south and enter the Great Rift Valley where we arrived late afternoon at our luxury safari lodge with a view of Lake Naivasha in the distance. The Rift Valley Lodge is set on the side of a mountain with sweeping views of the valley below.
The next day it was off to Lake Nakuru National Park, home to multitudes of pink flamingos feeding by the lake alongside many water buffalo. The colour of these birds in their numbers is a sight to behold. Our lunch was taken in a picnic area of the reserve where we had the company of a troop of baboons whilst enjoying our packed lunch provided.
An evening buffet bush dinner was organised on our final night at The Rift Valley Lodge. This my husband and I were later to find out became a wedding ceremony…ours!!! In Masai tradition we were given our robes to wear whilst being enchanted by the singing and dancing from the local villagers and staff. A truly unexpected surprise and a wonderful way to renew our vows. Thank you to everyone involved in the is remarkable evening.
Next stop on our adventure saw us drive to the Masai Mara Game Reserve, considered by most to be the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa. I can definately say it did not disappoint. Our luxury camp overlooked the Talek River where you could just sit on your balcony and watch the wildlife stroll by.
The first game viewing drive right up to the last saw our jaws opened up in amazement at the proliferation of wildlife. Every safari whether early morning or late afternoon provided something different and special. From the lioness with her five cubs to the king himself, they were all there. Hippos, giraffes, wilder beast, wart hogs, elephants, rhinos, hyenas, impala to the elegant ostrich I was struck with awe at these magnificent animals. To be able to see them like this in their own environment on the savannah, you can appreciate why people describe it as life changing.
This African journey is a truly once in a lifetime experience where the greatest wildlife show on earth will leave you with goose bumps you will carry for the rest of your life whenever you reflect on your visit here.
Travel Tips to Africa
What to wear on Safari
Dress is very informal and casual on safari. Light cotton tops & shirts (preferably neutral colours) along with pants or shorts are perfect for safari wear. Make sure you include a jacket or jumper for early morning game drives. You really don’t require hiking shoes however closed are a good idea during all game viewing activities
Luggage
Luggage allowance on light aircraft flying between safari camps is restricted. You may usually store extra luggage at your city hotel. For all flights on light aircraft in Africa your luggage allowance is restricted to 15 kg for each passenger and the requirement is for soft sided luggage only as the luggage is packed into the belly pod of the aircraft and hard sided suitcases will not fit.

Tipping
This is done at your own discretion and is part of life throughout Africa. Tipping guidelines are in USD but may be handed over to your guide at the end of the safari (prior to your departure from the Masai Mara airstrip) or in the local currency equivalent.

• Your Safari Guide -USD 5 – 10 per person per day on safari
• Porterage – USD 1 per piece of luggage

Money
Your accommodation in camp & lodges will accept credit cards. On arrival at Nairobi airport you will find ATM’s and authorised money changers. There are ATM’s in larger towns on your travels throughout Kenya. USD is the preferred currency and small denominations are always handy for tips, porterage and extras. Kenya Shillings can be changed at the airport or at your accommodation.

Mobile Phones + WIFI
Check with your mobile service provider for roaming charges. WIFI is available at Nairobi Serena Hotel, Samburu Intrepids Camp, Great Rift Valley Lodge, Mara Intrepids Camp and a fee may be charged. In addition complimentary WIFI is available in your Wildlife Safari 4WD safari vehicle.

Don’t forget
Travel documents, swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, insect repellent, hat, binoculars, camera and charger/adaptor plus extra memory cards (you will become a professional wildlife photographer within minutes of your first game drive!) You can charge your camera and phone batteries in camp, at the lodge or in the Wildlife Safari 4WD vehicle. We suggest you bring your own adaptor. Binoculars if you have them

What to buy
Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Masai jewellery, Mkonde wood carvings, Lamu chairs and batiks.

WILDLIFE PRODUCTS
DO NOT buy any wildlife or wildlife products especially ivory, fur and skin articles derived from wild animals. An “official export license” from the vendor will not legitimise your purchase.

Electricity
240 volts, 50Hz. UK-style square three-pin plugs
Read
Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen, I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann, and Petals of Blood by Ngugi wa Thiong’o.
I read Tick Bite Fever by David Bennun and A primemates Memoir by Robert M Sapolsky – both really funny reads.
Watch
Out of Africa (1985), The Ghost and the Darkness (1996), The Constant Gardner (2005), and The White Masai (2005)
Eat
Local game like zebra, crocodile and camel. Favourite restaurants, Niarobi – Carnivore, Java Cafe & Trattoria
Drink
Tusker Lager, or Tangawizi ginger ale for the teetotallers

Duty Free
Travellers to Kenya over 16 years do not have to pay duty on 227g tobacco or 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars; 1 bottle of alcohol; and 473ml perfume. Prohibited items include fruit, imitation firearms, and children’s toys pistols. No plants may be brought into the country without a Plant Import Permit (PIP).

Have a fantastic safari!