Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

How do you capture the essence of Africa on paper without using up every cliche in the book? No other Continent comes close to it for scale, variety & pure, raw impact. Something special about Africa touches the soul; it is a Continent of 54 immensely diverse countries that is both deeply troubled & profoundly uplifting. The Big 5, a beautiful diversity of Landscapes, Animals, Flora & Fauna & of course, fascinating Cultures.

East Africa is a wild realm of extraordinary Landscapes, People & Wildlife in one of the Planet's most beautiful corners. A Cradle of Mankind, as the first species of the Homo genus evolved here & migrated to the rest of the world. The 2 highest mountains in Africa are located here: Mount Kilimanjaro & Mount Kenya. River Nile, the longest in Africa originates from Africa's biggest lake, Lake Nyanza (also known as Lake Victoria).

& Kenya is where the concept of an African Safari began - the magic of the open, Kenya is the land of the Masai Mara, of Wildebeest & Zebras migrating in their millions with the great predators following in their wake, of endangered species like black Rhinos managing to maintain their precarious foothold. Also home to the red Elephants of Tsavo to the massed millions of pink Flamingos stepping daintily through lake shallows. Africa is the last great wilderness where these creatures survive & Kenya is the perfect place to answer Africa’s call of the wild. Game-packed savannahs still reverberates throughout this fascinating country. Come…experience Kenya with us.

Welcome to cosmopolitan enchanting Kenya - the land of the Big Five. Arrive in cosmopolitan Nairobi, the Capital & beating heart of Kenya & East Africa's largest city.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the Hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & also discuss the program for the next few days.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Reach the Hotel, Check-in & relax.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day free to relax or Optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

The name "Nairobi" comes from the Maasai phrase Enkare Nyirobi, which translates to "the place of cool waters". However, it is popularly known as the "Green City in the Sun" & is surrounded by several expanding Villa suburbs. The locals are popularly nicknamed 'Nairobians'. A vibrant City with a mix of Races & Cultures, it provides Tourists with Museums, a National Park, Golf Courses, Resorts & posh Night Clubs.

Nairobi is an exciting, frenetic concrete jungle that counterpoints the untrammelled natural beauty to be found elsewhere in the country. One of the largest & most influential cities & an important Financial, Commercial regional Hub.

With a population of over 1 million, Nairobi started life as a simple Railway Depot in 1899, linking Mombasa to Uganda & quickly grew to become the Capital of British East Africa in 1907 & eventually the Capital of a free Kenyan Republic in 1963. During the Colonial period, the City became a centre for the Colony's Coffee, Tea & Sisal industry.

Located on the banks of the Nairobi River, in southern Kenya, the Skyline is dominated by modern high-rise buildings & is a Tourism & Trade Hub. It plays host to major international bodies like the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP, UNHABITAT. The City’s business friendly environment makes it suitable to host such august bodies & Investors are scrambling for a share in the Capital.

Nairobi is a city full of contrasts. It is old enough that you can feel its past & multi-ethnic enough for you to experience its rich Kenyan culture.

Nairobi is the city that never sleeps & like other parts of sub-Saharan Africa, Nairobi has a vibrant & growing social scene known for its Nightlife, buzzing with a wide variety of entertainment joints from Restaurants, trendy Clubs, Discos. Cinemas & Theatres, Gaming & Casinos, Festivals & Concerts etc.

Most of these entertainment Hubs are usually open all week but are most bubbly on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays when Nairobians seek to get a break from the busy week. Rowdy Nightclubs keep revelers dancing until dawn. Local & Continental hits are dominant on the region's dance-floors, though American hip-hop, Western EDM & Caribbean music also has a steady presence. In the 2010s, a homegrown alternative electronic scene developed, characterized by a frenzy of Music & Dances.

Local Bars are widespread, often decked out in the colors of a local Beer brand. These can be as simple as a couple of plastic tables & chairs set up on a roadside to more elaborate Multi-bar Complexes. Note that Music is often played at a volume that non-Africans would consider abnormally loud, even when there is no obvious place to dance.

Nairobi has the best diverse shopping areas in East Africa providing access to many local & international brands, products & services. Business Bay Square Mall in Eastleigh, is the largest Mall in entire East Africa. Maasai Market provides a perfect chance for travellers to acquire a variety of Kenyan-made souvenirs & gifts. This sought-after Market offers a diverse selection of items, including Curios, Paintings, Drawings, Clothing, Fabrics featuring East African prints, Jewelry & Wood Carvings.

There are many Options for those who have the time & inclination to explore Nairobi. Some of the landmarks are Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Karura Forest, Mamba Village, Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi National Museum, Snake Park and Botanic Garden, Karen Blixen Museum, Railway Museum, Nairobi Gallery, Kenya National Archives, Nairobi Arboretum, Uhuru Park, Central Park, Uhuru Gardens, Michuki Park, City Park, Kazuri Beads, Godown Arts Centre, historical monuments & buildings.

It is the only Capital city in the world with a National Park - home to a plethora of wildlife, including the highest concentration of black Rhinos in all of Africa - within its boundaries & a melting pot for many Kenyan cultures. Dubbed the “Safari Capital of the World” cool, clear Nairobi is the natural departure point for most Safari itineraries on Kenya. A city of contrasts, it is simultaneously the largest, the youngest, the most modern, the highest (1700 metres) & the fastest growing in entire East Africa.

Morning, depart for Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a privately owned Wildlife Reserve.

On arrival by early afternoon, Check-in at Sweetwaters Tented Camp.

The Camp is in a class of its own. A sheltered Oasis with 39 luxuriously appointed Tents, clustered around a Waterhole & set in the pristine calm in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, abounding with wildlife, unfettered by the more rigorous strictures of the Kenyan National Parks & designed to offer a charming blend of under canvas ambiance & uncompromising luxury which has long been the preferred Retreat of Wilderness & Safari aficionados.

Built in the 1970’s, the Camp’s main building was originally the residence of the Ranch Manager. Ol Pejeta Conservancy was once the private domain of famed Billionaire Adnan Khashoggi & the high standards are still maintained. Each Tent has a thatched roof, an en-suite Bathroom & its own Veranda with views over the Waterhole. Facilities include Power Points for Hair Dryer, Shaver, Sockets (Hairdryer available on request from the Reception Desk). Laundry, Valet & Room Service is included. There is a Swimming Pool & a Spa.

The Camp prides itself on the quality of its Cuisine offering a 5 Course “table d’hôte” dining experience every night & a selection of African, Asian & international dishes. The Camp also offers a memorable selection of Safari Luncheons, Bush Dinners, Campfire Suppers & “sundowner” Safari Cocktails.

The privately owned 90,000 acres Ol Pejeta Conservancy (also known as Sweetwaters Game Reserve) was once, one of the largest Cattle Ranches in Kenya, for breeding of beef cattle.

Only 2.5 hours drive from Nairobi, with magnificent views across the plains to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya, it is home to all the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino & Buffalo) & has one of the highest predator density ratio of any Park or Reserve, 2^nd only to the Masai Mara area & still manages a very successful Livestock programme. Its popular Waterhole is floodlit by night, providing excellent & secluded Game Viewing.

Because there are so many Projects happening here & the Conservancy is so easily accessible from Nairobi (it is the closest Reserve to the Capital where the Big Five can be spotted), Ol Pejeta can feel slightly more developed than you might want -- however, despite the presence of Minibuses (particularly around Sweetwaters Tented Camp), it is quite possible to escape the masses & experience an untouched wilderness.

Ol Pejeta means “Place of burning”. Hundreds of years ago, the pastoral communities named it that because they use the area to kill ticks by burning the grass. The Conservancy is situated more or less on the Equator, between the Aberdare foothills & snow-capped Mount Kenya & comprises extensive savannah grasslands & riverine forests that border the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Ol Pejeta’s ranching life started in the early 1940’s with Lord Delamere, well-known as one of the first & most influential British Settlers in Kenya. Throughout the colonial era, Ol Pejeta was a very successful Ranch producing Beef.

But it is just as well known for the larger than life Billionaires who   owned & managed it during that time. Richard Branson of Virgin Group & the infamous Turkish-Saudi Arabian arms-dealer Adnan Khashoggi were also Owners. The Ranch was rescued just weeks before it was due to be sold off, destroyed, to be burned for charcoal.

By the late 1960’s, Poaching in Kenya by colonial Robber Barons had had taken a serious toll on wildlife populations. Elephant & Rhino numbers were plummeting. Although Elephant hunting was declared illegal in in 1973, numbers continued to decline.

This concerned one of Ol Pejeta’s previous owners, Lonrho Africa, who established the Sweetwaters Game Reserve in 1988 as a Sanctuary for black Rhino & Apes & other wildlife. Over time, the Reserve expanded to cover 90,000 acres. Today, it is a Fence-protected Preserve known for its successful integration of Cattle Ranching & Wildlife Management.

Though it is not just about rhinos - Ol Pejeta's role in the wider Laikipia Ecosystem extends beyond its boundaries thanks to its Partner Agreements & Wildlife corridors that link it to other Laikipia Ranches.

Ol Pejeta also seeks to support the local Tribes living around its borders, to ensure that Wildlife Conservation translates to better Education, Healthcare & Infrastructure for the current & next generation of Wildlife Guardians.

Their mission is to conserve Bio-diversity, particularly provide a Sanctuary for endangered species, to generate Income through Tourism & re-invest in Conservation & Communities. Over the last year, Ol Pejeta has contributed more than $1 million, collected from Visitors & from well-wishers, for local Schools & Healthcare programmes. It is enshrined in the Owners’ 'Not-for-profit' Trust that 100% of funds generated must be used for Conservation & Community development.  The Trust is governed by a Board of Volunteers who draw no remuneration.

Among the large numbers of Game & helping to make the Ranch financially viable, are approximately 6,500 Boran Beef Cattle, as well as a small Herd of Ugandan Ankole Cows with their spectacular long horns that make them almost as popular to photograph, as the Rhinos & Elephants.

More than anything else, Ol Pejeta is known for its successful Rhino program. The Reserve is the largest endangered Black Rhino Sanctuary in East Africa boasting a population of 81 (out of Kenya's 500 +) & home to the world's last 2 remaining northern White Rhinos.

In 2009, Ol Pejeta Conservancy welcomed 4 of the world's last remaining 7 northern White Rhinos from the Dvur Kralove Zoo in the Czech Republic.  Suni, unfortunately, died of natural causes in October 2014 & Sudan died of age-related complications on March 2018, leaving only 2 northern White Rhinos left in the world - both females.

The 2 Rhinos now live in the 700 acres Enclosure. Here, visitors have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet these remarkable Rhinos up close & personal & to hear their amazing story from the Keepers that look after them 24/7. All proceeds from the Meet the Northern White Rhinos Experience (not included - direct payment) are re-invested into the continuing efforts to pull the species back from the verge of extinction.

There are always 1 or 2 tame Orphans being rehabilitated by watchful Rangers & it is possible to set out on foot (not included - direct payment) to track Rhinos with an armed Ranger - the tracking program is so stringent, in fact, that each & every Rhino must be spotted once every 5 days.

The Reserve boasts abundant wildlife - Elephant, Cheetah Leopard, Buffalo, Grevy Zebra, Giraffe, Thomson's & Grant’s Gazelle, Black-back Jackals, Ostrich, Grant's Gazelle, Baboons, Waterbuck, Beisa Oryx, Eland, Waterbuck, Jackson’s Hartebeest, Striped & Spotted Hyena to name just a few. The Lions are the most numerous of the big cats, with 6 resident Prides bringing the total population to 72. The Conservancy also boasts over 400 species of Birds.

A pack of between 12-14 Wild Dogs has recently been sighted on a number of occasions within the Reserve. Wild Dogs are one of the rarest Carnivores in Africa, having disappeared from large parts of their former ranges. Indeed, this species was all but eliminated from Laikipia region 30 years ago, persecuted by pastoralists & farmers alike. Their return demonstrates how the area has begun to emerge as one of Kenya’s foremost conservation areas.

An enjoyable diversion (admittedly of limited conservation value) is the 250 acres Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Information Centre, founded in 1993 to protect a group of orphaned & sterilized Chimps formerly housed at the Jane Goodall Institute at Bujumbura in Burundi. The Chimps can be viewed from across a River, allowing for great (albeit rather artificial) photographic opportunities.

It is the only place in Kenya to see Chimpanzees, in a Sanctuary established to rehabilitate animals rescued from the Black Market. The Sanctuary has an abundance of wildlife & tropical vegetation & enjoys magnificent views across the bush to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya.

The aim of the Conservation Project, initiated by Lonrho East Africa, Kenya Wildlife Services & Jane Goodall Institute, is to set up a Colony where Chimps can be introduced, rehabilitated & taught to fend for themselves in an area similar to their natural living conditions. Priority is given to orphaned & abused Chimps. It started off with just 3 Orphans & there are now 40 Chimps, including 2 Babies born in the Sanctuary.

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy has one of the highest predator densities in Kenya with Lions being the dominant species in this category. Some of them have been fitted with Radio Collars & the Predator Research Team tracks collared Lions using a Receiver & gather information about each Lion. The data goes straight to the Conservancy’s Ecological Monitoring Unit & is collated to be used in finding solutions to the challenges that may be faced by the Laikipia’s Lions.

Visitors are offered a unique opportunity (not included - additional payment) to spend a morning with the Researchers & help them Track these radio-collared Lions & learn how the Rangers keep track of other animals, including Elephants. Guests are able to see the good work being done & to get close up to these amazing creatures. In addition to contributing to conservation efforts, you will get to participate in one of the most exciting Wildlife experiences. Clothing should be of neutral colour & Guests have to remain in their vehicles at all times.

Sunset is a game-changer in the African wilderness - this is when the denizens of the jungle come out to play. A Game Drive in the night is an excellent way to spice up your nightlife in the wild! Whether you wish to seek out the elusive nocturnal wildlife or behold the thrilling world of predators stalking their prey, a Night Game Drive in open-sided 4WD Safari vehicles, is especially interesting as it can allow sightings of Kenya’s more unusual critters & other nocturnal species. With the help of a Spotlight & an expert Ranger, Guests have a chance of spotting some of Aardvark, Zorillas, Bat-eared Foxes, elusive Leopard & Lion hunts are just some of the sights included in our guest’s campfire tales when they return.

Try the Ol Pejeta Bush & Bird Walks (not included - additional payment), an interesting experience you will remember. The Rangers here know the 90,000 acres like the backs of their hands. They are out all day every day & know the routes, the best places to see wildlife & a lot of fascinating information about the different species. With their guidance, get up close & personal with the sights, smells, sounds of the African bush. Early morning & evening are the best times to explore the Conservancy, as Predators are on the hunt & their Prey is on high alert.

Later in the afternoon around 3.30 pm, embark on a 3 hour Game Drive, accompanied by a Naturalist / Ranger.

With the snowy peaks of Mt. Kenya as your backdrop, your Safari in East Africa’s largest Black Rhino Sanctuary is sure to be as beautiful as it is diverse. Venture out there for close encounters with Elephants, Wild Dogs, Lions, Hyenas, Buffalo, Cheetah & all the plains Herbivores.

Game Drives, timed for when animals are most active which is early mornings & late afternoons, is an excursion by a variety of customised vehicles (could be an 'open' sided 4 Wheel Drive Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep or non 4x4 Tour Vans – all with maximum 8 seats) into the Park to explore & see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat.

Drive around in search of wildlife scattered through the dense forests. Your Driver will respect the sanctity of the Park & its animals. Keep your distance when observing any living creature, don't interfere with Predators engaged in the hunt & don't stalk or pursue any wildlife in an undignified, off-putting manner.

Game viewing Sweetwaters may also take the form of 30 minutes Game Walks in the bushes along the river. Or, Game Rides on Horseback. Or join the experienced Rangers on Rhino Patrols. Camel Riding, night Game Drives & “bush” picnic Lunches or Dinners are a delight (all these are Optional - additional payment).

Return to the Lodge by 06.30 pm for a gourmet surprise. Freshen up & get ready to enjoy a range of sumptuous African specialties, barbeques & international choices, there is little left to desire in this untapped haven.

Balance of the day free to relax or Optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

After Dinner, take a seat overlooking the Waterhole & Saltlick to watch the procession of animals come to drink. 

The Camp enjoys spectacular views over the alternately lush & golden plains towards the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. Because the Camp has its own private floodlit Waterhole, Guests can enjoy unprecedented close encounters with the Wildlife in its natural habitat & an unforgettable opportunity to watch & photograph animals in their natural habitat.

Early morning, enjoy another 3 hour Game Drive,

Check-out & depart for Samburu Game Reserve, located on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River in in northern Kenya.

Enjoy the scenic commute as you drive down the cool slopes of Mt. Kenya, across the plain of Laikipia, passing through quaint Villages, to your Jungle Lodge in the sandy desert region of Samburu. 

Arrive by afternoon. Check-in at the Lodge & relax.

All accommodation & central areas have views of the River & the nearby Waterhole, where large Herds of Elephants & other Wildlife come to drink, giving you the opportunity to enjoy unobstructed views.

Off the beaten Safari track & most popular in northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve, part of 3 National Reserves grouped together - Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba - covering an area of about 300 km² is located on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro river which slices through the otherwise bone-dry country.

Although it is not far from the Mt Kenya foothills, the geography here is vastly different, with desert scrub & savannah plains.  Samburu is distinctive for its plains & the dominant feature here is, the River acting as a magnet for Herds of thirsty animals. Photographers love this Park providing high quality game viewing & for its stark lighting & contrasts.

In the arid north of Kenya, water means life. The tree-lined River is permanent & attracts a lot of Game. You are almost guaranteed to see large numbers of Elephants (minimum of 900 as per last census) that have grown particularly accustomed to the presence of humans. They are especially active in & around the muddy waters of the River, where they are regularly spotted bathing & drinking in the morning & you are likely to encounter them along the roads as you explore the Reserve. Unfortunately, the Rhinos have long been wiped out by Poachers. Above all, though, Samburu is known as Elephant Country.

As a Wildlife Preserve, it doesn't disappoint - sightings of the Big Five (Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Buffalo & Rhino) are prodigious, and you have a remote chance of seeing packs of Wild Dog & the critically endangered pancake Tortoise, a rare species besides the endangered Grevy's Zebra characterized by its big round ears & designer pinstripe coat. Cheetah sightings are particularly good, too & do look out for those fabulously unwieldy-looking Kori Bustards (one of the largest flying birds on Earth).

There is a set of animals called the “Samburu Special 5” by the Tribes. They include the Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk & Somali Ostrich.

The River draws wildlife in great numbers, attracting Buffalo, Cheetah, Leopard, Lion, Warthogs & you may spot a few Crocodiles sunning on the banks. You can also see a variety of stunning Birdlife with over 450 species recorded. Birds of the arid northern bush country are augmented by a number of riverine forest species. Lesser Kestrel & Taita Falcon here, are species of global conservation concern.   5 species categorized as vulnerable have recorded in the Reserve. These are African Darter, Great Egret, White-headed Vulture, Martial Eagle & Yellow-billed Ox-pecker.

Another species unique to the Samburu region is the Gerenuk (Samburu 5). With luck, you will see some while on your Game Drive. It is amazing to watch them stand on their hind legs to eat! The Gerenuk also known as the Waller's Gazelle, is a long-necked species of antelope found in dry bushy shrub & steppe in East Africa. The word Gerenuk comes from the Somali language, meaning “giraffe-necked”, & leads to another common name, the Giraffe-necked Antelope.

One of the most extraordinary & endearing wildlife events ever witnessed on camera occurred in Samburu National Reserve. A Lioness named Kamunyak adopted an orphaned baby Oryx & nurtured it for several days while a BBC Film Crew observed & astounded locals & tourists watched in fascination.

While the Oryx suffered increasing malnutrition as it was unable to suckle, the Lioness also started to waste away as she traded hunting for instinct-driven mothering. Although the tale could not have ended any other way, the Oryx was finally killed & eaten by other Lions & if the film footage is anything to go on, the loss of her adopted baby broke the Lioness's heart. The event proved so strange, surreal & suggestive of the inexplicable wonders of the animal kingdom that Kamunyak was dubbed "the miracle Lioness" by the Samburu Tribe & thousands believe her action to have truly been an act of God.

Samburu region is also home to Samburu Herdsmen, who can be seen driving their Herds through the dust, dressed in striking red blankets & carrying spears. The women wear layers of beads in choker fashion around their necks & the men are famous for their colorful adornment & high-jumping dances in addition to their colourful adornments. Cattle, as well as Goats, Sheep & Camels, play a vital role in their way of life & culture. The Samburu are highly dependent on their livestock for survival & their diet comprises mostly of milk & occasionally blood from their cows. Traditionally, Samburu men look after their cattle & they are also responsible for the overall safety of the Tribe.

The Samburu people are some of the friendliest in Kenya. Originally a nomadic Tribe still embraces their nomadic culture & even today, every few weeks, the Tribe will change location to find fresh grazing grounds. Huts are constructed using hide, mud & grass mats strung over poles. A fence is built around the mud huts for protection from wild animals. The Samburu Settlements are called Manyattas. They usually dwell in groups of 5 - 10 families.

The Samburu are closely related to Maasai people who also live in East Africa, but parted ways with them back in the 15^th century, before settling in the Samburu Reserve, where they still reside today. To this day, both the Samburu Tribe & the Maasai speak very similar languages, both derived from Maa.

Many of the cultural practices of the Samburu are still embraced today, but have been influenced by the changes in society. The ‘educated’ or smarter ones jointly run some of the best eco-friendly Game Lodges.

The heritage & culture of the Samburu community, along with the more than 44 other ethnic communities in Kenya, continues to fascinate & inspire. The National Museum of Kenya invites everyone to celebrate the intangible cultural heritage of all communities which makes up this great nation.

You will about their love of nature & their deep respect for Elephants, especially. These beautiful mammals have influenced Samburu tribal culture since the dawn of time.

Enjoy an afternoon at 3.30 pm, embark on a 3 hour Game Drive, accompanied by a Naturalist / Ranger.

Game Drives, timed for when animals are most active which is early mornings & late afternoons, is an excursion by a variety of customised vehicles (could be an 'open' sided 4 Wheel Drive Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep or non 4x4 Tour Vans – all with maximum 8 seats) into the Park to explore & see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat.

Drive around in search of wildlife scattered through the dense forests around the base of Mount Kenya. Your driver will respect the sanctity of the Park & its animals. Keep your distance when observing any living creature, don't interfere with Predators engaged in the hunt & don't stalk or pursue any wildlife in an undignified, off-putting manner.

Return to the Lodge by 06.30 pm. Freshen up & enjoy a sumptuous Dinner With a range of African specialties, barbeque & international cuisine.

Balance of the evening is free to relax.

After Dinner, take a seat overlooking the Waterhole & Saltlick (if available at your Camp / Lodge) to watch the procession of animals come to drink. 

Morning & afternoon Game Drives allow ample time to observe the abundant wildlife in this region. You can enjoy unobstructed views of game along the river banks and the waterhole.

Return to the Camp.

Balance of the day free to relax.

.

Morning, you will be transferred to the Samburu Oryx Airstrip located within the Reserve to board a light Aircraft for the short Safarilink flight to Masai Mara, connecting & changing Plane in Nanyuki.

Flights to the Masai Mara are operated as a Shuttle service.  Departure times & Routings may change, depending local weather conditions. As Airlines service several Lodges / Airstrips, it is possible that multiple Stops are may be made enroute to your destination Airstrip. Flight times are subject to change without notice but do not worry, that is our responsibility to keep you informed & transfer accordingly.

As Masai Mara flights are operated by means of small Aircraft (e.g. Cessna Grand Caravan), Baggage restrictions are strictly adhered to, as the space on the small Aircraft is very limited. Allowance of total 15 kgs per person in a soft duffel-type bag, includes hand luggage & Camera equipment. Seats on most aircraft are of a restricted 'utility' size & larger passengers above an average weight will require 2 Seats due to Safety & Comfort (at a supplement cost).

On arrival at the Airstrip close to the Lodge / Camp, you will be welcomed by The Journeys Rep. The good news is... once you are over Masai Mara, you can start spotting wild animals by air during your flight & on the ground while being transferred in a Safari vehicle to the Camp / Lodge nestled among trees at the River’s edge.

Check-in & relax.

Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the best Wildlife destinations in Kenya & a premier conservation area which is why the Masai Mara is so important, being one of the few places on earth where Wild animals & their Ecosystem exist in a highly protected environment. It is named in honour of the Maasai people, the ancestral inhabitants of the area, who migrated to the area from the Nile Basin.

For the first-time traveler to East Africa, the Mara - a comparatively tiny portion of the expansive game-rich wilds known as the Serengeti just across the border in Tanzania - is indispensable, considered the ultimate opportunity to view wildlife in all its untamed, theatrical glory. If the literature is to be believed, the Mara boasts the highest concentration of terrestrial wildlife on Earth & even if you don't make it in time to see the Migration, you will still be treated to one of the richest & most diverse Animal Kingdoms in the world.

Established in 1961 on lands owned by the Maasai & once hunted by wealthy Brits, the Mara is part of a huge conservation area that stretches into neighboring Tanzania & that, thanks to the establishment of new community-owned Conservancies around the edges of the Mara National Reserve, is actually expanding.

Thrown into the mix is the opportunity to rub shoulders with the Maasai. Kenya's most famous group of people is a Tribe of tall, elegant Pastoralists who - despite encroaching modernity - have somehow managed to sustain many of their traditional ways & tradition continues to play a major role in their lives. The Maasai people make up a community that spans northern, central & southern Kenya & northern parts of Tanzania. It is estimated that there are approximately half a million individuals that speak the Maa language including not only the Maasai but also Samburu & Camus people in Kenya.

As Pastoralists, the community holds the belief that they own all of the cattle in the world. The Maasai rely on their lands to sustain their cattle, as well as themselves & their families. You will see young Maasai boys herding hundreds of cattle or shepherding goats across the land, or come across the legendary Maasai warriors (morani) -- dressed in their bright red patterned shukas, beadwork & long-lasting sandals made from recycled rubber tires - who have long stirred the imagination of visitors to East Africa.

Prior to the establishment of the Reserve as a protected area for the conservation of wildlife & wilderness, the Maasai were forced to move out of their native lands.

One of the most beautiful & diverse places to visit in Kenya. This huge expanse of gently rolling grassland - specked with flat-topped Acacia trees & trampled by massive herds of Zebras & Wildebeest - is the ultimate African cliche. But for once the reality lives up to the image & the Masai Mara, which comprises not just the famous Reserve but also around a dozen community Conservancies, several group Ranches & numerous Masai villages, is for many people not just the highlight of their Kenyan adventure but the very reason they came in the first place.

Everything about this Reserve is outstanding. The Wildlife is abundant & the gentle rolling grasslands ensure that animals are never out of sight. Globally renowned with approximately 25% of Kenya’s Wildlife. hosting more than 95 Mammal species besides being a recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) with close to 550 species including 57 species of Birds of Prey.

These progressive community-based models of animal conservation in form of Conservancies were established in efforts to safeguard wildlife habitat while offering economic opportunity for thousands of people. This is crucial, as an estimated 65% of Kenya’s remaining wildlife lives outside National Reserves. The Mara Conservancies cover an area of 336,191 acres - almost the size of the National Reserve - which belongs to 13,236 Land owners who receive a monthly land lease payment, generating an economic benefit to over 100,000 people. This helps avoid human - animal conflict that would ensue if there was no income stream for the local communities who also require land for grazing their cattle & growing crops.

The climate is gentle, rarely too hot & well-spread rainfall year round. Rain, when it falls almost always chooses the late afternoon or night.

The Reserve contiguous with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, is home to some of the most diverse collection of animals. All members of the "Big Five" - Lion, Leopard, Bush Elephant, Buffalo, Black & White Rhinos – are found here all year round.

The population of Black Rhinos was fairly numerous until 1960, but it was severely depleted by Poaching in the 1970s & early 1980s, dropping to a low of 15 individuals. Numbers have been slowly increasing, but the population was still only up to an estimated 23 in 1999. Maasai Mara is the only protected area in Kenya with an indigenous Black Rhino population, unaffected by translocations & due to its size, is able to support one of the largest populations in Africa. Hippopotamuses & Nile Crocodiles are found in large groups in the Mara & Talek Rivers. The Plains between the Mara & the Esoit Siria Escarpment are probably the best area for Game Viewing, in particular regarding Lion & Cheetah.

There are many large Carnivores found here. Lions are the most dominant, in large numbers. Spotted Hyenas are another abundant carnivore & will often compete with others for food.

Leopards are found anywhere in the Reserve where there are trees for them to escape to. East African Cheetahs are also found in high numbers on the open savanna, hunting Gazelles & Wildebeest.

African Wild Dogs are quite rare here due to the widespread transmission of diseases like canine distemper & the heavy competition they face with Lions, who can often decimate their populations. Their Packs also roam around a lot & travel far distances throughout the Plains, making it hard to track them.

Smaller carnivores that don't directly compete with the latter include African Wolves, Black-backed Jackals, African Striped Weasels, Caracals, Servals, Honey Badgers, Aardwolves, African Wildcats, Side-striped Jackals, Striped Polecats, African Civets, Genets, several Mongoose species & African Clawless Otters.

Antelopes can be seen here, including Grant's Gazelles, Impalas, Duikers & Coke's Hartebeests. The Plains are also home to the distinctive Masai Giraffe. The large Roan Antelope & the nocturnal Bat-eared Fox, rarely seen elsewhere in Kenya, are present here.

More than 470 species of Birds have been identified in the Reserve, many of which are migrants, with almost 60 species being Raptors. Birds that call this area home for at least part of the year include: Vultures, Marabou Storks, Secretary Birds, Hornbills, Crowned Cranes, Ostriches, long-crested Eagles, African Pygmy-Falcons & the Lilac-breasted Roller, which is the national bird of Kenya.

In Masai Mara, you can actually encounter & experience a live Discovery Channel, a haven for viewing a congregation of all sorts of animals in a 5 mile radius. A pride of Lions can be spotted ready to make a run for a Gazelle, a Cheetah & its cub taking a nap on a rock, a pair of Ostriches walking the open stretches of the savannah or a Gazelle giving birth.

Wildebeest or Gnu as they are also known, are the dominant inhabitants of the Maasai Mara & Serengeti & their numbers are estimated in the millions.

An amazing event of Nature unfolds between the months of July-October. Around July of each year, large herds of some 1,300,000 blue Wildebeest, 500,000 Thomson's Gazelles, 97,000 Topi, 18,000 common Elands & 200,000 Grant's Zebras, travel north, in search of fresh pasture, into Masai Mara from the neighboring Serengeti National Park located in Tanzania & return back to the south around October, attempting dangerous, frequently foolhardy Crossings of the Crocodile infested Mara River, as part of their annual bio-rhythmic round-trip exodus. It is really is as spectacular & mesmerizing as the Wildlife documentaries would have you believe.

This extra-ordinary mass exodus of over 2 million + on a 500 mile route, is known as the Great Migration, an awesome, rollicking natural cycle, a phenomenon that is beyond description & is one of the greatest spectacles on earth.

The perilous Crossing is an iconic moment of the Migration, capturing the attention of Wildlife enthusiasts the world over. Those images of thousands, rather millions, of seemingly hypnotized animals flopping, diving & tripping into River are astounding & it is reckoned that this particular Migration - one of numerous animal Treks that happen around the world throughout the year - is best witnessed here in the Masai Mara, where the massive animal numbers are compressed into a relatively small area. Imagine 2 1/2 million visiting animals cluttering the Plains & clogging the River as they squeeze into an area that covers just more than 1,500 sq km. It is one of nature's must-see dramas - although, with its high death toll, not necessarily for the squeamish.

Kenya & Tanzania are the best countries to witness the Migration. The Great Migration has been designated as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa & as one of the 10 Wonders of the World.

Game Drives are the most popular activity in the Reserve, but other activities include Hot-air Ballooning, Nature Walks, Photographic Safaris & Cultural experiences like spending time in a Masai Village.

The Rangers patrol regularly which means that there is less Poaching & excellent Game Viewing. There is also strict control over the number of Vehicles allowed around animal sightings.

Around 3.30 pm, accompanied by the Naturalist / Ranger, embark on a 3 hour Game Drive.

Game Drives, timed for when animals are most active which is early mornings & late afternoons, is an excursion by a variety of customised vehicles (could be an 'open' sided 4 Wheel Drive Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep or non 4x4 Tour Vans - all with maximum 8 seats) into the Park to explore & see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat.

Drive around in search of wildlife scattered through the dense forest & open savannah.  Your Driver will respect the sanctity of the Park & its animals. Keep your distance when observing any living creature, don't interfere with Predators engaged in the hunt & don't stalk or pursue any wildlife in an undignified, off-putting manner.

Return to the Lodge by 06.30 pm. Freshen up & enjoy a sumptuous Dinner With a range of African specialties, barbeque & international cuisine.

Balance of the evening is free to relax.

After Dinner beneath the star studded African sky, take a seat overlooking the Waterhole & Saltlick (if available at your Camp / Lodge) to watch the procession of animals come to drink. 

Get up very early today & embark on a morning Game Drive at 06.15 am.

Game Drives, timed for when animals are most active which is early mornings & late afternoons, is an excursion by a variety of customised vehicles (could be an 'open' sided 4 Wheel Drive Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep or non 4x4 Tour Vans - all with maximum 8 seats) into the Park to explore & see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat.

Drive around in search of wildlife scattered through the dense forest & open savannah.  Your Driver will respect the sanctity of the Park & its animals. Keep your distance when observing any living creature, don't interfere with Predators engaged in the hunt & don't stalk or pursue any wildlife in an undignified, off-putting manner.

Return to the Lodge by 09.00 am. Freshen up & enjoy a hearty Breakfast.

Balance of the morning free to relax or Optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

After a sumptuous Lunch, at 03.30 pm, embark on another Game Drive.

Return to the Lodge by 06.30 pm. Freshen up & enjoy a sumptuous Dinner With a range of African specialties, barbeque & international cuisine.

Balance of the evening is free to relax.

After Dinner beneath the star studded African sky, take a seat overlooking the Waterhole & Saltlick (if available at your Camp / Lodge) to watch the procession of animals come to drink. 

Today, you will enjoy a full day Game Drive with a Picnic Lunch.

Meet the Ranger at 09.30 am & proceed.

Game Drives, timed for when animals are most active which is early mornings & late afternoons, is an excursion by a variety of customised vehicles (could be an 'open' sided 4 Wheel Drive Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep or non 4x4 Tour Vans - all with maximum 8 seats) into the Park to explore & see a variety of wild animals in their natural habitat.

Drive around in search of wildlife scattered through the dense forest & open savannah.  Your Driver will respect the sanctity of the Park & its animals. Keep your distance when observing any living creature, don't interfere with Predators engaged in the hunt & don't stalk or pursue any wildlife in an undignified, off-putting manner.

Your Ranger will set up the Lunch Table at an interesting vantage point.

Return to the Lodge by 06.00 pm. Freshen up & enjoy a sumptuous Dinner With a range of African specialties, barbeque & international cuisine.

Balance of the evening is free to relax.

After Dinner beneath the star studded African sky, take a seat overlooking the Waterhole & Saltlick (if available at your Camp / Lodge) to watch the procession of animals come to drink. 

Enjoy yet another Game Drive, at dawn.

Come back to the Camp & after an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the Airstrip for the short flight back to Nairobi.

Arrive in Nairobi. * Accommodation envisaged only for day use – Wash & Change.

If your flight departs late at night or early morning on Day 9, then you will require a Room for an extra post-tour night (with a supplement cost).

On arrival at Terminal ? - Nairobi Wilson Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the Hotel (couple of hours - Day Use only). He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & co-ordinate the pick-up time for the Departure transfer.

Check-in at the hotel (day use only).

Shortly after, accompanied by the Journeys Driver, visit the Giraffe Centre.

For those Guests who are not able to stay at Giraffe Manor, visiting the Giraffe Center is the best chance to get up close & personal to the pretty-faced Rothschild Giraffe. The tour is a wonderful & refreshing experience that gives a completely up close & personal interaction where Guests have the opportunity to view the Giraffes as well as to feed them.

This is one of Kenya’s successful Conservation stories. In 1979, Jock Leslie-Melville (the Kenyan grandson of a Scottish Earl) & his wife, Betty, a former model from Baltimore, began raising a baby Giraffe in their Langata home.

Their first effort to save Rothschild Giraffe, was to bring 2 young Giraffes, Daisy & Marlon, to their home in Nairobi. Here, they raised the calves & started a programme of breeding Giraffe in captivity.

They began the Center at their home after discovering the sad plight of the Rothschild Giraffe, a sub-species found only in the grasslands of East Africa.

Subsequently in 1979, they created a Non-profit -Organization African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) in the United States, in a bid to save the endangered Giraffe, which was losing its natural habitat in western Kenya due to Agriculture, with only 130 left in the wild on the 18,000 acre Soy Ranch, that was being sub-divided to resettle Squatters. The Rothschild’s Giraffe had been pushed to the brink of extinction by severe habitat loss in western Kenya.

Funds were raised to move 5 other groups of Giraffe to different safe areas. Breeding A herd of 26 Giraffes was translocated from Soy Ranch to Ruma Game Reserve in present-day Homa Bay County in Lake Nakuru National Park.

In 1983, funds raised by AFEW, helped build the Giraffe Educational Centre on a 60 acre Sanctuary. In 1985, 7  more Giraffes were introduced to Yodder Flower Farm at the Mwea Game Reserve in Mbeere.

The Center protects the highly endangered Rothschild’s Giraffe & combines it with serious Conservation efforts & enjoyable activities.

Their vision of creating an educational institution in conjunction with rescuing the Giraffe became a reality &Giraffe Centre opened its doors to the general public & students the same year & received over 800 excited students. The Giraffe Centre has become world-famous as a Nature Education Centre, educating thousands of school children every year & exposing them to aspects of their rapidly disappearing natural heritage. There is nothing too sophisticated or overly touristy about the Center. Visitors can observe, feed or standing on a raised wooden platform, even "kiss" a friendly Giraffe as it takes a food pellet straight from between your lips, which is quite an experience.

It is a moment you will never forget & you will be happy to know that the slobber that accompanies the 45 cm tongue that whips out against your mouth, is a natural antiseptic designed to help heal various cuts & wounds sustained while they graze on the tiny leaves among the thorns.

The Volunteers can also tell you many other interesting facts about the Giraffe that can enable you to distinguish between these & other Giraffe species, just by looking at their skin pattern or noticing whether or not they have "white socks”.

 Today, the conservation efforts have paid off & there are over 500 Rothschild Giraffe safe & breeding well in various Kenyan National Parks. Recent herds have been introduced to Soysambu Ranch by Lake Elementaita in the Great Rift Valley, Kigio Conservancy & Sergoit Ranch in the Mount Elgon region.

Return to the hotel & Check-out.

“The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands”- Sir Richard F Burton

Kenya is where the concept of an African Safari began - the magic of the open, the land of the Masai Mara, of Wildebeest & Zebras migrating in their millions with the great predators following in their wake, of endangered species like black Rhinos managing to maintain their precarious foothold. Home to the red Elephants of Tsavo to the massed millions of pink Flamingos stepping daintily through lake shallows. Africa is the last great wilderness where these creatures survive & Kenya is the perfect place to answer Africa’s call of the wild. Game-packed savannahs still reverberates throughout this fascinating country.

With so much more to explore in Kenya & beyond, just a glimpse is certainly not enough do justice to the country. So, you see, you have much more to discover if you come ‘again’ & we will of course, look forward to be able to facilitate that.

In time, you will be transferred to Nairobi – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey.

Bon Voyage & enjoy the flight. B

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