Heather and Chris
Safari and Swahili coast
10 Days
Nairobi | Maasai Mara | Lake Naivasha | Hell’s Gate | Lamu
Karibuni Heather and Chris! Your adventure starts in buzzing Nairobi. After soaking in Kenya's vibrant capital, your safari will take you to the iconic, game-rich grasslands of the Maasai Mara, one of the most celebrated wildlife reserves in the world. The journey includes a scenic route northward through the Great Rift Valley, a geological wonder home to a string of shimmering lakes, none more stunning and abundant in wildlife than Lake Naivasha.
Your safari continues to Hell's Gate, a remarkable and uniquely atmospheric part of the Great Rift Valley, where you can cycle among zebras, hartebeests, impalas, and giraffes.
Finish your trip with a slice of paradise - Lamu, with its warm tropical waters, pristine beaches and UNESCO World Heritage Swahili old town. Your safari encompasses the very best of Kenya.
Transport - Road & Air
NAIROBI
DAY 1 (Sep 30th)
Morning
Karibuni Kenya!
Arrive in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling, dynamic, cosmopolitan capital city where you will begin and end your safari.
You will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Check into your hotel in Karen - Karen Blixen Coffee Garden and Cottages
After breakfast your driver will take you to your morning activities and lunch.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery - Your driver will meet you at 10 am for your short drive to the elephant nursery where you will jump right into the enchanting world of elephants! Arrive at 11 am to spend an hour getting up close to these incredible creatures and learn about their care and conservation through this world-recognized orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program.
Lunch
Tin Roof Cafe (Langata) - A quick drive from the elephant nursery and a Karen favorite. Tin Roof Cafe is a peaceful outdoor spot where you’ll enjoy delicious healthy meals and snacks. You will also have the chance to do a bit of shopping. There are lots of lovely gift and craft shops stocking a well-curated selection of locally made goods including, kikoys, bags, and decor.
Following lunch your driver will take you back to your hotel.
Afternoon
Giraffe Centre - Visit the popular nature sanctuary where you can feed giraffes and get close enough to be licked by their long blue tongue, all while supporting the conservation of this endangered Rothschild subspecies. Stroll through the nature trail, rich in bird life and home to over 200 species, or attend a lecture about these tall graceful animals. Don’t forget to get a kiss!
Massage - Return to your hotel for your 3:30 pm Baroness massage and melt away the stresses of your journey.
Evening
Dinner and Drinks - Enjoy a delicious meal at your hotel, or choose Hemmingways for its beautiful views of the Ngong Hills or the Talisman Restaurant for its lush gardens, or Cultiva for its farm-to-table menu.
Activities Include
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (1 hour long viewing of the nursery elephants); Giraffe Centre (feeding the giraffes, nature trail, birdwatching, educational talk); lunch; shopping; dinner and drinks
Extra(s) - Massage
MAASAI MARA
DAYS 2-4 (Oct 5th-7th)
NAIROBI - MAASAI MARA 5H (ROAD)
Day 2 (Oct 5th)
Morning
Depart from Nairobi at 7 am. Your driver guide will meet you at your hotel for your journey to the Maasai Mara—the land of endless savanna!
Located in southwest Kenya, the Mara is one of the great wildernesses of the world. Home to the Big Five and an abundance of other wildlife, both large and small, the animals here are often easy to spot. Along the way, you'll stop at a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley, as well as other stops for comfort and refreshments. Expect to arrive between 12 pm and 1 pm.
Arrive at Naserian Mara Camp, Lemek Conservancy - Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with some refreshments. Enjoy lunch, stretch your legs, and take in the beautiful surroundings of your intimate bush camp. You may even be welcomed by one of the camp’s resident bushbucks.
Afternoon/Evening
Game Drive and Sundowner - After some rest and relaxation, your driver guide will meet you for your first evening game drive. At dusk, the landscape takes on a rare beauty, bathed in warm light with long shadows cast by the acacia trees. This creates the perfect cover for savanna wildlife. As daylight fades, nocturnal wildlife like lions, leopards, and hyenas become more active, offering you a thrilling glimpse into their nighttime activities.
Take in the spectacular sunset as you sip on your sundowner.
Day 3 (Oct 6th)
Morning
Bush Breakfast - Set off early to catch the sunrise and enjoy the ultimate breakfast adventure - thrilling yet tranquil, accompanied only by the grunts of hippos if you're by the river. As you admire the stunning scenery of the early morning Mara, all your senses will come alive.
Game Drive - After breakfast, you will set out on your morning game drive. Watch as the vast plains come to life. You might still see the remnants of the night before as the nocturnal animals seek refuge from the sun. The moist grasses attract plains animals such as giraffes, zebras, and hartebeests, consequently making lions most active in the morning, as well as leopards and other predators. These days, elephants are abundant in the Mara, and it is always awe-inspiring to watch these gentle giants stroll by. Take a moment to look to the skies and spot the myriad of birds wheeling in the bright morning sun.
Afternoon
Maasai Community Visit
Meet the Maasai in their village. Although they welcome visitors, the Maasai villages you will be visiting are homes first and destinations second. Ancient in custom and tradition, these communities have resisted modernity and have been successful in preserving their way of life and the environments they live in. Learn about how they manage this fine balance and discover their way of life.
Step inside a manyatta (Maasai house), the embodiment of tradition and simplicity. Learn about their cooking practices, medicinal knowledge, and hunting techniques. This unique experience of cross-cultural exchange can be fulfilling for both you and the community.
Evening
Evening Game Drive and Sundowner - Enjoy your second evening game drive, exploring a different part of the savanna as you sip your sundowner.
Day 4 (Oct 7th)
Morning
Hot Air Balloon Ride - Rise early to take to the skies morning and watch the Maasai Mara unfold beneath you. You'll enjoy a unique perspective and fantastic photographic opportunities as you glide over this magical landscape, spotting wildlife below. The experience includes a champagne breakfast, adding a touch of luxury to this iconic and romantic adventure!
Afternoon
Bush Walk - Leave your vehicle behind and take a guided walk through the bush. Led by a member of the local community, you’ll have the thrilling opportunity to connect with the wilderness and discover how the Maasai read the landscape.
Archery - Learn to shoot like a Maasai and discover how they have mastered the wilderness with their spear, bow, and arrow.
Birdwatching - With the help of your driver guide, you’ll be able to spot a variety of bird species that inhabit this acacia bushland, ranging from giant ostriches to little weaver birds and the kaleidoscopic lilac-breasted roller.
Evening
Evening Game Drive and Sundowner - Relish your final evening game drive, and keep your eyes peeled for creatures you might have overlooked on previous drives as your eyes become accustomed to the landscape. With drink in hand, soak up the wonder of the Mara.
Activities Include - Morning and evening game drives; bush breakfasts; walking safaris (1 hr or 2-3 hrs); archery lesson; hot air balloon ride; Maasai cultural experiences; birdwatching.
Extra(s) - Massage
LAKE NAIVASHA
DAY 5 (Oct 8th)
MAASAI MARA - LAKE NAIVASHA 3.5H (ROAD)
Morning
Drive to Naivasha - Set off after breakfast to Naivasha. Follow the Great Rift Valley into the lake region and leave behind the wide and golden savanna to be embraced by the lush and verdant landscape of Lake Naivasha. You can expect to arrive between 12 and 1 pm.
Midday
Arrive at Elsamere Lodge - Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with some refreshments. Enjoy lunch, stretch your legs and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Afternoon/Evening
Boat Safari and Crescent Island - Fringed by papyrus and acacia woodland the lake is a RAMSAR site, a designation that reflects the ecological importance of the area’s wetlands. Experience a boat safari, glide through the glistening water and be enthralled by the hippo pods and a sighting of an African Fish Eagle. Explore the incredible biodiversity of Crescent Island on foot, a breathtaking sanctuary and Naivasha's best-kept secret. Walk among giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, impalas, and countless bird species.
Activities Include - Wildlife viewing; boat safari; nature walk at Crescent Island; conservation talk and museum; English/Kenyan afternoon tea.
HELL’S GATE
DAYS 6 (Oct 9th)
NAIVASHA - HELL’S GATE 30 Mins (ROAD)
Morning
Bike Ride - Head off early for the short drive to Hell’s Gate, named for its intense geothermal activity the park inspired the Lion King and was the setting for Tomb Raider. A rare gem in Kenya, a National Park where you can leave your vehicle behind and walk, hike, or cycle among zebras, impalas, and giraffes - there are no dangerous predators in the park!
You will be met by your dedicated Hell’s Gate guide to begin your bike tour. This diverse terrain is perfect for exploration by bicycle, with flat grasslands for easy riding and steep volcanic cliffs and deep gorges providing a dramatic backdrop. Enjoy a leisurely pace as your guide explains your surroundings, including the distinctive volcanic rock column Fischer's Tower. Your driver guide will be waiting for you once you finish.
Lunch
You will carry a packed lunch to be enjoyed at a scenic picnic spot on your ride.
Afternoon/Evening
Natural Spa - Round off the day with a dip in the Park's geothermal spa, where the natural healing water reaches temperatures between 30°C and 40°C. Upon your return to Elsamere, enjoy one last sunset over the lake from the lodge's beautiful and verdant grounds.
Activities Include - Mountain biking; guided tour; wildlife viewing; gorge walk; Maasai community curio visit; rock climbing; natural spa.
Lamu
DAYS 7-9 (Oct 10th-13th)
NAIVASHA - NAIROBI - LAMU (2H (Drive) - 1.5H (AIR)
Day 7 (Oct 10th)
Morning
Depart from Naivasha
Your drive to Nairobi Wilson Airport will depart after a leisurely breakfast and final views of the lake.
Depart Wilson Airport at 14:15 hrs.
Arrive in Lamu (Manda Island)
Touchdown on Manda Island at 15:25 hrs from where you will be taken by boat across the channel to Lamu’s Old Town.
Peponi Hotel - Upon arrival, you will be met by your accommodation staff and taken by boat across the channel to Lamu’s Old Town and onward to Peponi Hotel.
Afternoon/Evening
Explore Lamu - Historic Tour
Natural beauty and ancient history converge in Lamu. Discover its charming mystique and ancient history - one of the most captivating places in the world. The historic old town offers the best preserved example of a Swahili settlement in the world, and was gazetted a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Traditional culture is alive and well and it is maintained with a sense of pride. Lamu has no cars and getting around is a bit of an adventure. Boat taxi, tuk tuk or donkey are the preferred options.
Explore Lamu and stretch your legs with a walking tour of the Island where you can take in the sights and sounds of the old town. Admire the beauty of the inlet with views out to the open ocean and wrap up your evening with a delicious sunset dinner.
Day 8 (Oct 11th)
Morning
Takwa Ruins and Snorkeling
Set out after breakfast to Manda island to discover and explore the Takwa ruins, an abandoned 18th-century town. Cool off in the clear water of Manda Toto, snorkel, and then enjoy a delicious bbq picnic, or head to Kinyika where you may be able to play with the dolphins.
Afternoon
Birdwatching
Head off to the sand flats and mangrove forests which are home to an incredible array of birdlife, best seen at sunset as they come home to roost.
Evening
Sunset Sail
A must experience when visiting Lamu, watch the sunset while aboard a dhow, ancient ships that have sailed these waters for centuries.
Day 9 (Oct 12th)
Morning
Fishing
The Swahili people are skilled fishermen. You can fish squid in the channel by hand-line or explore deeper waters for bigger catch with a traditional dhow or sports fishing boat captained by Nils Korschen.
Afternoon
Lamu Museum
Learn about Lamu’s history in this small but interesting museum. With a variety of artifacts including, clothing, jewelry, furniture, manuscripts, musical instruments and maritime and archaeological finds. Other places of cultural and historic interest include, German Post Office, Swahili House, and Mwana Arafa Jambeni.
Donkey Sanctuary - Without cars, Lamu relies heavily on donkeys for transportation of people and goods. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary which has been providing help and care for these animals and their owners for the past 30 years.
Evening
Sunset Beach Stroll
Shella beach boasts a 14 km stretch of untouched beach, facing the vast Indian Ocean. Enjoy the rejuvenating ocean breeze, soft sand and spectacular sunset. You can also explore the local communities close to the beach, their coral sided houses adorned with bougainvillea make beautiful backdrops for your memory book photos.
Day 10 (Oct 13th)
Morning
Last Morning in Paradise
Awake to swaying palms and a warm ocean breeze. You’ll have a full morning to enjoy some final activities.
Lunch
Swahili lunch (you can request a list of restaurant recommendations from your hotel)
Afternoon
Depart Lamu 15:15 Hrs
Cross the channel for your flight to Nairobi Wilson Airport.
Evening
Arrive Nairobi Wilson Airport 17:55 Hrs
You will be collected and transported to The Social House
Activities (suggested) - Old Town guided tour; sunset dhow trip; snorkeling; fishing; Swahili lunch; have a massage and switch off from the modern world.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
On your return to Nairobi:
Dining and Drinks
Crafty Chameleon Brewhouse and Restaurant
Sample some of Kenya’s finest craft beers in the ambient restaurant garden close to the Social House.
Hemmingways
5 star hotel in Karen. Beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Ngong Hills make this a great place to enjoy one of their fantastic cocktails or a delicious meal.
The Talisman
A Karen favourite, offering a fusion of culinary influences from Swahili to Italian. It is situated in the leafy neighborhood of Karen, in a beautiful garden setting.
Matteo’s Italian Restaurant
Authentic Italian pizza and pasta in a lush garden setting. The grilled jumbo prawns are incredible!
Cultiva Farm Kenya
Excellent fresh food prepared with food directly from their farm.
Activities
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world. A must visit for anybody to Nairobi.
Circle Gallery
Located near to the Social House is one of Nairobi's leading contemporary art galleries. Explore the creative expression of local and regional artists through their frequent exhibitions and featured artists.
Shopping
Karen
House of Treasures - High-quality shops offering a diverse range of products, including expertly crafted leather goods and jewelry.
Utamaduni Craft Centre - Upmarket curio shop.
Langata Link Shops - Well curated selection of locally made goods including, kikoys, bags and decor with a modern aesthetic.
Kazuri Beads Factory - Locally made sustainably crafted jewelry, established to create employment opportunities for single mothers.
The Hub Mall: Banana Box - Well curated gift shop; Sandstorm - Established and beautifully made local brand specializing in canvas and leather bags and goods.
Westlands
Sarit Center: African Lifestyle Hub - Beautiful selection of goods, including baskets, sandals, clothing and accessories.
Gigiri
Village Market - Stylish mall with a wide selection of stores offering everything from clothing to decor. Maasai market at Village Market - One-stop-shop for all your local curio products including kikoys, carvings, baskets and more.