Description
The Safari
Experience myriad delights of the Masai Mara before relaxing at one of Mombasa's finest hotels on this fantastic 14-night trip. The first part of your week is spent on safari, with plenty of opportunity to spot Africa's most famous residents. Afterwards, it's 7 nights of rest and relaxation at the Diani Reef Resort Beach & Spa, with top-notch amenities and attractions galore!
Day 1: London - Nairobi
Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Nairobi with Virgin Atlantic.
Day 2: Masai Mara
On arrival, you will be picked up and journey to the Masai Mara. Lunch is followed by an afternoon game drive, with plenty of opportunity to spot the 'Big Five' and other species in this world-famous game reserve. Your base for the next 2 nights is set in the Oloolaimutia Valley, surrounded by a wealth of wildlife, bird life and natural flora. Overnight: Mara Sopa Lodge. (L/D)
Day 3: Masai Mara
Both an early morning and an evening game drive are on the agenda today - ideal times to spot bush inhabitants in abundance. The surrounding Ngama Hills are one of the best places to spot the Mara's 20 or so black rhino, so keep your eyes peeled! Balloon safaris (pre-bookable, optional extra) offer another way to get to grips with your surrounds, or join a walking safari. Sundowner cocktail parties provide the perfect way to end the day! Overnight: Mara Sopa Lodge. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Lake Naivasha
Leave the Masai Mara today for the drive to Lake Naivasha. Lunch is followed by a boat trip on the lake (subject to water levels). This beautiful lake, surrounded by the yellow-barked Acacia tree, is world-renowned as a birding destination, so cast your eyes skywards in between spotting giraffe, monkey, hippo and buffalo on its shores. Overnight: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge. (B/L/D)
Day 5: Amboseli
After a good nights' sleep, continue to Amboseli, stopping for lunch en route at Nairobi's famous Carnivore Restaurant. Arrive at Amboseli late afternoon, enjoying a short game drive en route. Overnight: Amboseli Sopa Lodge. (B/L/D)
Day 6: Amboseli
In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is famous for its big game and scenic beauty - both of which you'll have ample opportunity to enjoy on early morning and evening game drives. At night, relax with a sundowner round the campfire during the warmer months, before tucking into a hearty meal prepared for you by the camp chefs. Overnight: Amboseli Sopa Lodge. (B/L/D)
Day 7: Tsavo East
Leave Amboseli and drive via Emali towards Tsavo East. Lunch is followed by an afternoon game drive in Tsavo East to spot the local inhabitants at rest and play, including lion, leopard, cheetah, antelope, hyena and elephant. Afterwards, relax back at the lodge. Overnight: Ngutuni Lodge. (B/L/D)
Days 8-14: Mombasa
A final chance to get to grips with the wildlife with an early morning game drive. Afterwards, head to Mombasa and the Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa, your base for the next 7 nights. The resort overlooks a beautiful palm-fringed beach and has plenty of amenities and attractions to tempt you, including one of the finest spas in the country. Water sports abound, with jets skis, deep-sea fishing and a PADI diving centre to take advantage of. At night, choose between 3 restaurants and 5 bars, some with a lively atmosphere, others more relaxed.
Day 15: Mombasa - London
Fly to Nairobi to connect with your Virgin Atlantic flight to London Heathrow.
Tour Notes
- Safari departs Mon from the UK.
- Any excess luggage can be left in Nairobi, local charge.
- Guaranteed window seat in a radio-equipped 4x4 vehicle.
- Accompanied by an English-speaking driver/guide.
- Accommodation, transfers, meals and game activities as specified in the itinerary.
- Please travel with soft-sided bags on safari.
- Please note, if travelling 31/03/08 - 25/10/08 you will spend a night at the Jacaranda in Nairobi on a bed and breakfast basis prior to your return, and your stay in Mombasa will be reduced to 6 nights.
- Min child age 8 years.