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Africa is an incredible tourist destination with diverse cultures, in our blog, we shall major in Kenya, a country that really has it allย  ranging from great safaris, fascinating beaches, mountains, traditional culture to modern cities. This is the perfect introduction of Kenya Travel Adventure.

 

Iโ€™ve created this Kenya Travel Guide, with lots of info and resources, and all of my Kenya blog posts!

Things To Know About Kenya

Currency:ย Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Languages:ย Swahili and English are the official languages of Kenya. Swahili is spoken by most people and English is widely spoken and understood. There are over 100indegenous languages spoken in Kenya.

Visa: Visas must be bought in advance online from theย Kenya e-Visa website.

Main Airport(s): Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) and Moi International Airport (Mombasa).

When To Go:ย The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season between June and October. The short rains come in November and December and the long rains come in March to May. If you want to see the wildebeest migration, the best time is between July and October when the herds are usually Crossing the Mara River from Serengeti to Masai Mara.

Festivals:ย Lamu Yoga Festival, Kilifi New Year, Lake Turkana Cultural Festival.

Yellow Fever: One is required to have a certificate before visiting Kenya especially from the hotspot countries. You can see whether you need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate here.

Internet & Mobile:ย The two main networks in Kenya are Airtel and Safaricom. You can have one once you arrive at the airport.

Water:ย It is not advised to drink the tap water in Kenya, so I would suggest buying bottled water or using aย filtered water bottle.

Safety:ย Kenya is a relatively safe country, however you need to keep your wits about you in larger towns and cities (especially in Nairobi and Mombasa) and as petty crimes are common. The road between Malindi and Lamu is notoriously dangerous and it is advised to fly. I would advise you to take taxis after dark and if you do need to walk at night, keep to busy streets and preferably walk in a group.

What to Pack: You can see my complete Kenyan Safari Packing List.

 

The Magical Migration

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The wildebeest, seemingly assembled from the wreckage of all the other plains species, is one of Africaโ€™s most charismatic creatures. Despite the appearance of an evolutionary calamity, it is also one of the most successful. When herds around two million strong gather together to migrate between the southern parts of the Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara Game Reserve, you find one of the most dramaticย wildlife eventsย on the planet.

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5 Top Tips for viewing the Wildebeest Migration

If youโ€™re planning to include time with the wildebeest migration on your safari, take a look at our top tips to maximise your chances of viewing one of the animal worldโ€™s most spectacular wildlife events.

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5 Tips on Photographing a Wildebeest Migration โ€˜River Crossingโ€™

Wildebeest are wild animals so itโ€™s impossible to know exactly when and where a river crossing will occur. However there are a few ways to boost your chances of getting that perfect action photograph of wildebeest at a river crossing.

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Any questions?

If youโ€™ve got this far and not found an answer to a question you have, or you think thereโ€™s something more about theย wildebeest migrationย that we should have included, please ask in the comments section below, or pop us an email. Weโ€™ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.

For more information on the wildebeest migration Kenya please see our Great Migration In Masai Mara Kenya page.

Places To Experience The Best Kenyan Culture

 

With 42 different tribes, a myriad of migrant and expat workers, inter-marriages and western influences, Kenya is a melting pot of different cultures just waiting for the right person to experience it all. Regardless of your destination within the country, you have a chance to experience a great number of different cultures that will mesmerize you and maybe, tempt you into assimilation. If you want to learn about the culture and traditions of the Kenyans, here are the places to experience the best Kenyan culture:

 

1.Narok

If you want to experience the best of this majestic, yet adorably head-strong culture, you should take a trip to Narok.

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2.Lake Turkana

This alkaline water body is the life line of a region that is mostly populated by the nomadic Turkana people. Another interesting fact is that Lake Turkana is home to the endangered El Molo people. A tribe that is quite literally disappearing before our very eyes.

 

3.The Bomas of Kenya

If you are in a hurry and you want to experience a cross-section of all the cultures that Kenya has to offer, you simply must visit the Bomas of Kenya on Langโ€™ata Road in Nairobi. You will get to see almost everything that the different Kenyan cultures and traditions are made of.

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4.Lamu

Lamu is like the pretty little bow that wraps up an entire Muslim region. This semi-remote location has seen very little impact from the outside world and cultures. A traditionally Muslim town, Lamu is as beautiful as it is authentic. As an โ€˜outsiderโ€™ you will be surprised to find that Dhows and donkeys are the only mode of transportation here.

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5.Mombasa

Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Indian ocean, Mombasa is one of the best places to experience the Swahili culture in all its variations. The culture of residents of Mombasa was deeply influenced by the Arab and Persian traders who first visited the coast of East Africa over 400 years ago.

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What to do with 24 Hours in Nairobi

 

1.Nairobi City Tour

If you are wondering what to visit if you are only in the city for a short time, a Nairobi walking tour is a wonderful way to enjoy the captivating capital of Kenya. Many people simply pass through the city, en-route to a safari, but if you have time to spend a night, you should certainly get out and explore. By taking a Nairobi walking tour with a guide, you wonโ€™t only see the main tourist places in Nairobi, but you will also hear their stores and share their experience of life in the city.

 

 

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2.Game Drive at Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Parkย is one of the most accessible safari adventures in Kenya since it’s just minutes away from the city center. It is one of the smallest national parks in Africa and yet it supports an astonishing variety of wildlife. It is home to four of theย Big Five animals.

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3.Cultural Visit at Bomas of Kenya

Bomas of Kenya is a tourist village and cultural center six miles outside of Nairobi. It features replicas of traditional homesteads, or bomas, from 23 of Kenyaโ€™s ethnic groups, as well as traditional dances performed in its large auditorium. You will enjoy the rich traditional dances, villages and handicrafts displayed at the Bomas of Kenya and view numerous homesteads reflecting Kenya โ€™s cocktail of cultures.

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4.Dinner at the Carnivore Restaurant

Hidden within a tropical gardenย and adorned with a loud, colorful dรฉcor, The Carnivore opens up into a vegetarianโ€™s fiery nightmare, or a meat eaters Shangri-la, depending on your culinary leanings.Twice making the worldโ€™s 50 best restaurants by Restaurant Magazine, Carnivore opened in 1980 to immediate popularity.Itโ€™s recommended for dinner at start or end of your safari or a treat out from your hotel. A wide variety of vegetarian dishes are available.

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5.David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Giraffe Center tour

The Giraffe Centre opened to the public in the early eighties and is now simply part of a larger non-profit organization, the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (Kenya) Ltd. Visitors can come to the center and actually get right up into the faces of the giraffes via raised walkways. The animals can be fed little snack pellets and might even reciprocate with a lick with their big purple tongues. At David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust you can take a walk through the center where baby elephants wait to be fed. Watch them play in the water, gargle their milk, and discover each elephantโ€™s personal stories.

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6.Half Day Tour Nairobi National Museum & Snake Park

Combining the two destinations makes the most of your time, with the chance to explore Kenyaโ€™s natural, human, and cultural heritage in one of Kenya’s most prominent museums.

In the grounds of the National Museum, the Snake Park has some impressive snake species, including the puff adder, black mamba, Egyptian cobra, African rock python and Gaboon viper (with 4cm-long fangs, the longest in the world). There are also local fish species, lizards, turtles and some sad-looking crocodiles.

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COASTAL KENYA HOLIDAY GUIDE

 

As you dream about yourย paradisiac holiday to the Kenyan coastline, you probably imagine spending your days sunning on the beach and sipping delicious cocktails at sunset. Perhaps you are a high-adventure traveler who desires action-packed water sports, such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, sailing, windsurfing and more. What you may not know, though, is that the beaches of Kenya have many secrets and Gemfinders Safaris is your ultimate guide for a superlative coastal tour of magical Kenya!

Best of all, some of the idyllic beaches and islands of Kenya like Msambweni,ย Funzi, Che Shale in Malindi, Galu and Lamu offer utter solitude with varied aquatic and terrestrial experiences.

 

 

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The contrast of soft white sand and azure blue water lulls you into the enchantment of Kenyaโ€™s many seashores. Each beachfront setting offers a unique experience to suit the personal style of every guest. The buzzing pace ofย beaches on Mombasaโ€™s North Coastย is perfect for value guests, especially families, and those wanting to be close to the mainland.

While the privacy and isolation of theย South Coast Mombasaย is well-suited for couples, small groups, solo travelers and also familiesย For a picturesque setting, Malindi offers brilliant blue water and incredible stretches of beach along the edge of a 13th-century coastal town.

Another favorite are theย beaches of Watamu. The primary oceanfront setting is sited next to a marine reserve, and is dotted with coconut palm trees that dance in gentle ocean breezes.

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Just beyond the sands of Kenya lies the warm Indian Ocean, and just below the surface is a breathtaking world of colorful marine life.ย Kenya is, in fact, home to some of the worldโ€™s greatest dive sitesย andย snorkel reefs, including the second longest barrier reef on the planet. At Mombasaโ€™s South and North Coast, you dive and snorkel amongst the reefs ofย Kisite Marine Parkย andย Mombasa Marine Park.

The views from the waterโ€™s surface are incredible, but going below the surface reveals reef walls that entice even the most experienced diver. But Kenyaโ€™s coral reef sites do not stop there!ย Watamu Marine Park and Malindi Marine Park both offer incredible experiences of over 100 types of coral and more than 600 fish species the North Reef, Turtle Bay and also alongย Mida Creekย during your African marine vacation activities.

 

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Aquatic sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet-skiing are great ways to enjoy the seawaters of Kenya. With miles of beaches, Kenya gives you plenty of space for your shore activities alongside refreshing cocktails that are always available at your hotel bar.

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Would you ever imagine thatย Kenya is a world-class destination for fishing? Just beyond Kenyaโ€™s coastline is some of the worldโ€™s largest and most challenging game fish that swims through its water. Whether you are an amateur or professional angler, or anything in between, you will find the most high-pace, thrilling and divineย deep sea fishing just off the coast of Mombasa,ย Watamu, Malindi,ย Lamuย and many other sites. Throughout the year, you can catch your very own dorado, wahoo, giant trevally, kingfish and others.

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Like other places in the country, the beaches and islands are home to many worthwhile natural and cultural treasures. Forย archaeology and antiquity buffs, the ruins and coastal towns of Kenya will pique your curiosity. Onย Mombasaโ€™s Old Townย nearย Fort Jesus Museum, you wander along narrow, labyrinth alleys lined with quaint houses and faith structures likes mosques to even Hindu temples and churches across the township. Watamu has the abandonedย Gedi Ruinsย from the 12th century while Kilifi has Mnarani Ruins that was occupied two centuries later.

Lamu Island, a 14th century untainted Swahili settlement, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering superb deserted beaches, ruins, varied yesteryear architecture and even an old battle fort. Nearby is the very relaxed and leisurely village of Shela. These are some of the many ecological, archaeological and historical sites that Gemfinders safaris guests enjoy during their beach holiday trip in Kenya

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WHY A MASAI VILLAGE IN KENYA IS WORTH A VISIT

 

Youโ€™ve seen those amazing photos of Maasai warriors adorned with the brilliant red, purple, and blue patterns of their shukas, standing tall and proud with their spears. Or maybe youโ€™ve seen the pictures of their fierce women bejeweled with bright beaded earrings and scarves with the arid African savannah as their backdrop. With their history dating as far back as the 15th century, the Maasai tribe is one of the oldest inhabitants of East Africa and still retain many of their traditions as they live relatively uninfluenced by modern day civilization. A highlight of any safari vacation in Kenya is a visit to theย Maasai villageย to get a glimpse into their unique way of life as it promises to be an educational experience ย in one way or another. Hereโ€™s what you can expect:

 

The Warm Excited Welcome

The Maasai tribesย  are very proud to welcome visitors to their villages and often do so with song and dance, which you might even be able to join in! At certain times, one of the dancers will jump up and down gracefully in what is known as adumu or the most widely known โ€œjumping danceโ€.

These graceful jumps are several feet high as the warriors form a circle with the jumper-dancer in the center levitating higher and higher to the rhythms of the singers. The higher the jump, the higher the singers will raise the pitch of their voices. You will usually be invited into the circle to try jumping with them too, adding to the dancing fun!

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The Peculiar Village Huts

The traditional Maasai village is called aย Manyatta and consists of several small huts made of mud and cow dung. Interestingly, it is the Maasai women who build these sturdy dwellings, only relying on the men to supply them with the necessary materials. It is certainly a very different lifestyle as an entire family will cook, eat, sleep and socialize within this modest structure, sometimes even sharing the space with small livestock.

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A Famous Tribe Rooted in Tradition

The Maasai tribe are traditionalist and have resisted the urge to adopt a more modern lifestyle. As a nomadic people, a typical day in a Maasai village consists of cool and usually busy women and girls who set about milking the cows and goats, and attending to other chores. Later the herders (only men) take the cattle for grazing on the Mara plains, still following their ancient practice of moving along with the water.

Thatโ€™s why even on a regular safari tour, youโ€™d often see them with their livestock on the savannah thatโ€™s also home to elephants, giraffes, zebra and some of Africaโ€™s most dangerous predators. Notwithstanding, the tribe has lived peacefully alongside these wild animals for hundreds of years with a strong aversion to eating game. If a visit to the Maasai village is not included in your safari adventure itinerary, consider adding it.

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The Explosion of Colors

The many vivid colors of the Maasaiโ€™s garments is one of the first things youโ€™ll notice as you enter the village. It often makes for a photogenic scene as these bright shukas or sheets contrast strongly with the browns and greens of the landscape stretched on the horizon.

Adding to this colorful display is the brightly beaded necklaces, bracelets and amulets worn mostly by the women who use such beaded jewelry to express their identity and social status. ย Some of these items will be displayed for sale and you can purchase some to help support the village as well as bring home an authentic, handcrafted souvenir from your travels.

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A SNEAK PEEK OF A TYPICAL DAY ON SAFARI IN KENYA

 

Before your first safari, it is hard to imagine what to expect. You may have some ideas about the day-to-day routine and the general Kenya safari experience but you could still have some unanswered questions.

This short blog usually happens on a typical safari in Kenya. Your safari will be customized to your preferences by our team. You may want to adjust your wake-up times, mealtimes, and length of game drives or arrange additional experiences such as hot air balloon rides, walking safaris or even cultural visits to the Masai Village.

 

Wake-Up Call on Safari

The time of your wake-up call will depend on several factors. You may need to wake up earlier in warmer destinations to avoid the mid-day heat. For instance, in Masai Mara, your wake-up call is likely to be at 5:30 am and leave for a morning game drive at 6:00 am.

The reason you leave the lodge early is to have the best chance of seeing wildlife. As the sun gets hotter, more animals will hide away in the shrubs and trees. Another reason for the early start is that the temperature is cooler for guests on the game drive and provides an opportunity to have a break and stay out of the mid-day heat.

 

Morning Game Drive

When you start your morning game viewing session, the air will be chilly, even in hot places like Samburu from 6:00 โ€“ 6:30am. The morning is considered the best time for safari viewing, especially to see what the big cats have been up to overnight and the result of their hunting.

A driver-guide is supposed to help you see as many animals as possible. Keep your camera or binoculars out from the start of your safari game drive because you never know when you will come across a spectacular sighting. However, it is easier to find animals in some parks than in others. For instance, in Samburu National Park, you may need to look around longer to spot some of the Big 5 whereas in Masai Mara ,Nairobi National Park and other parks, you may come across these animals more quickly.

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Bush Breakfast

At around 9:00 am, your stomach may rumble, meaning it is time for breakfast. Most lodges/camps offer you the chance to eat breakfast while out in the savannah. A bush breakfast is wonderful for many reasons:

Firstly, it is an adrenaline-filled experience eating in the bush. Your guide will seek out a safe location for you to exit the vehicle and set up breakfast.

Secondly, it is remarkable that your guides can assemble such a delicious breakfast using contraptions on the vehicle that turn into kitchen equipment.

For example, your vehicle may have several tables and counters onboard, a stove stowed away, and there are coolers filled with food and beverages.ย ย 

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Mid-Morning Game Drive

Following your safari refreshment stop, you will have the opportunity to continue looking for more animals. Then, as the sun starts to reach the peak of the day, you will begin your journey back to your lodge/camp. At the end of your mid -morning game drive, you can discuss your afternoon activity with your guide, that is what you would wish to do in the afternoon.

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Lunch Time at the Lodge & Chill Time

Enjoy lunch served in the mess area of your camp/lodge at approximately 1:00 PM. You will not go hungry while on safari, there is plenty of food to be eaten. After your lunch, you will be ready for a period of relaxation. You can take this time to nap, or dip in the pool.

 

Afternoon Game Drive

If you are continuing your day with another game drive, you can return to your safari vehicle. You will have discussed with your guide what time to resume activities. This time will likely be between 4:00 โ€“ 5:00 pm. Your lodge may offer other evening activities, such as walking safaris, cultural village visits, or special food and drink set-ups.

The late afternoon and evenings are another great time to look for wildlife because the temperature has started to cool down, so the animals will reappear.

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Dinner at the Lodge

Upon return from the game drive or your other evening activity, you can retire to your room to freshen up for dinner. In most Lodges, dinner is usually served around 8:00 pm. Some camps offer communal dining options where you share a table with other guests staying at the lodge while you get to interact with each other. You can opt to dine alone too.

The lodge staff may be able to set up a special dining arrangement for you. Dinner is usually a three-course meal. So, make sure your lodge knows all your dietary requirements and any extreme dislikes.

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REASONS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH KENYA

 

Kenya is a bucket-list destination and Itโ€™s a fantastic stand-alone safari destination but also an easy combination with a longerย Tanzanian safari, Kilimanjaro climb,ย gorilla trekking in Rwandaย or the exotic forests of Madagascar! Explore the hidden gems of Kenya that reach far beyond just the Masai Mara and find out why people fall in love with this sensational safari destination.

Fabulous Farm Experiences

Kenya is blessed with abundance. From the fertile volcanic soils of the Rift Valley that produces a bounty of fresh vegetables, tea, coffee, nuts and flowers to the Kenyan Coast and its great source of tropical fruits and seafood.ย  A Farm tour is a great addition to any safari experience, and youโ€™ll be in awe when you see the lavish produce and exceptional export quality.

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Kenyaโ€™s Rich and Exotic Culture

Though Kenya has many cultural and ethnic groups, the semi-nomadic scarlet cloaked Masai are undoubtedly the most photographed and most famous. Cultural tours give you the opportunity to learn more about their impressive survival and hunting skills and get a taste of their traditions.ย  The handmade beaded jewelry and colourful Shukaโ€™s make for spectacular art pieces back home and memories of your African safari.

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Off the Beaten Track

The Masai Mara may the most famous of Kenyaโ€™s National Parks and should be on the top of your list, but there are many hidden gems to explore away from the crowds. Lake Nakuru with its abundant birdlife and flocks of pink flamingos. You can also explore Lewa and Loisaba, sharing your wildlife sightings with no other, whether by vehicle, on foot, horseback riding or even on the back of a camel.

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Conservation in Action

Some of Africaโ€™s most successful rhino conservation projects are found on Kenyaโ€™s private reserves like the Ol Pejeta Conservancy which is located in the Laikipia County of Central Kenya. It is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa. There is also Lewa Wildlife Conservancy which is located in Meru County, this conservancy is home to a wide variety of wildlife including some rare and endangered species like black rhinos and sitatungas. The Masai Mara also hosts 24 conservancies. David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a worthy visit along with Giraffe Centre.

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Unusual Safari Activities

Besides game drives and bush walks, Kenya may just offer the widest variety of safari activities you can ever come across. If youโ€™re active you can join the anti-poaching team for morning boot camp, run the Nairobi Marathon or go on an adventurous multi-day camel or horseback ride, spending your nights in comfortable mobile camps or kite surfing on the coast. Donโ€™t forget climbing the snow-capped Mount Kenya, hiking Hells Gate or mountain biking one of the many off-road trails, with or without the wildlife.

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ADVENTURES BEYOND THE SAFARI VEHICLE.

 

I know, the main purpose of going on a Safari is to enjoy wildlife from your safety and comfort of your Safari Vehicle. But, there are other adventures you can add that will give you a different perspective and they can be so much fun.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris offer an immersive and exhilarating way to experience the African wilderness up close. Unlike being in a Safari vehicle, a walking Safari brings you into direct contact with the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush. Guided by experienced trackers, youโ€™ll learn about tracking techniques, the behavior of various wildlife, and the intricate ecosystems. Itโ€™s a chance to see the smaller wonders of the bush, from insects to plants, that are often overlooked in traditional Safaris.

It is deal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a deeper connection with nature.

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Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Flying high up in the sky is the ultimate safari experience. Watching the world awaken from up high is pretty special, you can see animals beginning their day and the vast wilderness stretching out as far as the eye can see. Plus, as exhilarating as this experience is, itโ€™s also super peaceful up there. The cherry on top? Landing for a laid-back breakfast in the bush, maybe even with a bit of bubbly or a mimosa to toast your adventure.

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Gorilla and Chimp Trekking Experience
Yes, coming face-to-face with endangered gorillas in either Rwanda, Uganda, is possible โ€“ an experience many aptly describe as โ€˜life-changingโ€™. The same goes with chimps in those areas as well as Mahale Mountains in Tanzania. Watching these human like animals in the wild and observing their movements, relationships, and daily routines is an intimate and profound experience. Youโ€™ll learn about their behaviors, their importance in the ecosystem, and the efforts currently underway to protect them. Be ready for long hikes, sometimes through difficult terrains but if you can do this, the rewards are tremendous.

It is deal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone passionate about conservation.

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Boat Cruise Safaris
There is nothing that gives great vibes like a boat cruise. You might spot elephants taking a dip, hippos lounging in the shallows, or birds flitting through the reeds. Itโ€™s like watching a nature documentary unfold, but way cooler because youโ€™re actually there. And the best part? The tranquility. Itโ€™s just you and your guide, the dhow and nature.
It is deal for: Nature buffs and anyone looking for a relaxing adventure.

 

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So, there you have it, a sneak peek into some of Africaโ€™s most unique adventures. We canโ€™t wait to help you discover these hidden gems!

 

 

WHAT BUDGET DO YOU NEED FOR A SAFARI?

 

โ€œWhat does a typical safari cost?โ€ is one of the questions asked regularly during any conversation about safari options. Your overall safari price will be determined by how many nights you want to spend on safari (viewing wildlife) and whether you want some in between time experiencing some of Africaโ€™s beaches, wine lands, culture, activities or scenery. Safari nights are the most expensive component of your trip as theyโ€™re all inclusive and usually set in remote areas but that doesnโ€™t mean that your overall cost need to break the bank.ย ย  Weโ€™ll explore some of the details that need to be considered when planning your safari budget.

 

When do you want to go?

Timing is a very important factor as the safari industry has peak season (June โ€“ October), low season (November โ€“ March) and shoulder season (April & May). Prices can vary greatly between the seasons so if your budget is on the smaller end then you may get better value for money by making use of the lower rates.

 

How many days is your safari?

Here’s a breakdown of why a shorter safari will generally be cheaper compared to longer one.

Accommodation: Accommodation costs are a significant factor in safari expenses. For example, a 2-day safari typically requires only one or two nights of accommodation, while a 7-day safari necessitates several nights.

Transportation: Transportation expenses such as transfers, flights, or road travel are typically charged per person or per vehicle. With a longer safari, you will have more days of transportation, whether it’s transferring between destinations or engaging in game drives. Consequently, the transportation costs for a longer safari will be higher than those for a shorter one.

However, the longer durations allows for more immersive wildlife experiences and exploration, making it important to factor in the value you derive from the additional days when considering the cost.

 

 

What level of accommodation are you comfortable with?

All the safari camps are extremely comfortable, some in brick chalets with air-conditioning and WiFi and others in stylish safari tents in more remote areas.ย  Ask yourself what falls within your comfort zone โ€“ dome tents, eco loos and bucket showers on a walking safari, classic safari tents with all the amenities or something super luxurious with your own private pool and butler?

 

Do you have specific interests or hobbies?

If you are a birder or avid photographer then we may recommend certain areas, guides or seasons to maximize your experience.ย ย  Photography workshops, specific vehicles or specialty guides could add to the cost of your safari if you request it.

 

Who will you be traveling with?

Traveling as a single is most expensive as a lot of properties charge per person and not per room.ย A single supplement is charged for single travelers which is usually around a 30 โ€“ 50% extra cost on your pp rate. If you are traveling alone, you can join a group to keep your costs lower.

Families โ€“ special rates are available for children of certain ages and as families are accommodated in โ€˜family roomsโ€™, the costs are often very affordable for your youngsters.

 

Mode of Transport?

The other issue that will affect the price of your safari is the mode of transport you will be using.

Opting for a comfy Jeep or a more budget-conscious tour van can sway costs and, importantly, influence your adventure’s intimacy. The choice between a luxurious jeep, van as well as the option of joining a shared transport, will significantly impact the overall cost. Jeeps are more expensive than tour vans.

 

PLACES THAT YOU CAN SEE RHINOS IN KENYA ON Aย  SAFARI

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Rhinos are one of the Big 5.ย  The term โ€œBig 5โ€ was coined in colonial times by hunters who listed lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo as the five most dangerous animals to hunt. These days the Big 5 are protected, and the term is synonymous with wildlife and photographic safaris. Seeing any of the Big 5 on safari will truly remain an โ€œawe-inspiringโ€ sight for safari-goers.

Rhinos are among the major safari attractions to the most of the tourists who come to explore in Kenya with the most leading destinations that have got various population of the rhinos including both the black and the white rhinos, where the black rhinos are more than the white rhinos, and that are over 600.

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Ol Pejeta conservancy.

Ol Pejeta conservancy is located in the northern Kenya in the Laikipia plateau, the conservancy is a private sector with a lot of the rhinos population in the country. Ol Pejetaโ€™s conservancy rhinos contribute a lot to the population of the rhinos that are found in the country. During you safari to spot the rhinos inย Ol Pejeta conservancyย you can proceed to the endangered species Boma that is so close to the conservancy where the tourists can spot the white rhinos which makes the safari the most enjoyful one.

 

Nairobi National Park.

Nairobi National Park in Kenya has the best spotting point for rhinos, the park is located few kilometers fromย Nairobi city. The park is well known for the availability of the black rhinos that has make the park special in Africa. Tourists who come to Nairobi National Park enjoy spotting the rhinos as they are crossing the savannah with the Nairobiโ€™s skyscrapers in the background which makes your safari a fascinating one.

 

Lake Nakuru National Park.

Lake Nakuru National Park is located in the Kenyaโ€™s Great Rift Valley, where the park is such incredible to be visited by the tourists who love nature. The park boasts large population of both black and white rhinos that are currently present there in large numbers, this is among the national park in Kenya known for its rhinos especially the white rhinos at times they tend to occupy the shores of the lake, which can be easily sighted on your Kenya safari.

 

Borana wildlife conservancy.

Borana wildlife conservancy as well is located in the northern part of Kenya in fact the conservancy itโ€™s next to the Lewa wildlife conservancy. Borana wildlife conservancy being located on a large piece of land that inhabits the population of large numbers of the rhinos which is now popularly known as the worldโ€™s most important rhino sanctuaries. In Kenya Borana wildlife conservancy is the very attractive sanctuary known for large populations of the rhinos.

 

Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Maasai Mara National reserve being the top most safari in destination in Kenya, including the great migration, the big cats and the big five mammals, the rhinos being among the big five mammals during aย Kenya safariย like game driving itโ€™s very easy for the tourists to spot the rhinos most especially the black rhinos.

 

Solio Game Reserve.

Solio in Kenya is known as Kenyaโ€™s oldest rhino sanctuary in Nyeri, most of the rhinos that are spread in the country originated from this reserve due to the presence of the open horizons here makes the perfect sightings of the rhinos in Kenya, the reserve has 22% of the rhinos and also known worldwide.

 

Tsavo National Park.

Tsavo national park especially Tsavo west is the most attractive where it has preserved the rhinos in theย Ngulia Rhino sanctuaryย located in the south-eastern Kenya, over 78 rhinos do stay in the sanctuary. Not only in the sanctuary but the rhinos can be seen through the heart of the park that gives the tourists the clear view of the rhinos that are present in the park.

 

Lewa wildlife conservancy.

Lewa wildlife conservancy is situated in the north in Laikipia, the conservancy has supported and conserved high numbers of the rhino population in fact thatโ€™s the reason to why the rhinos are still existing in Kenya, the conservancy has protected the high numbers of the rhinos for a long period of time ever since 1980โ€™s both the white and the black rhinos. On a safari to the Lewa wildlife conservancy and on your stay to the Lewaโ€™s top-end lodges to the conservancy itโ€™s an added advantage for you freely to spot the large number of the rhinos in the conservancy as well as Lewaโ€™s orphan rhino project which gives you the amazing sighting of the unique rhino creatures.

 

Aberdare National Park.

Aberdare National Park has got large numbers of the black rhinos that mostly stay in the forested slopes of Aberdare National Park where the tourists can easily spot the rhinos in the park which makes them to fulfill the dream of spotting the rhinos in Kenya.

Other destinations to where the tourists can spot the rhino species in Kenya includes the Meru National Park, Ruma National Park, Amboseli National Park and many others.

 

THE WILDEBEEST CALVING SEASON

 

The calving season usually takes place between January and February of each year. While the migration route has remained the same for thousands of years, the exact timing of the migration varies depending on seasonal rainfall, so these timings are merely a guideline.

The calving season is one of the most critical phases of the migration. Wildebeest give birth to their young in the Ndutu region. Ndutu is in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area near the southern Serengeti Plains.

The Ndutu calving area is one of Africaโ€™s great natural beauties. This region is the birthplace of a one-of-a-kind wildlife phenomenon, a yearly celebration of life. Imagine two million wildebeest giving birth to 400,000 calves in three to four weeks. Nothing on earth compares to this show. Every day, nearly 8000 newborn wildebeest are born!

The calving season is a vulnerable time for the wildebeest. Predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetah take advantage of many vulnerable young calves. Nevertheless, the calving period is essential for the continuation of the wildebeest population. During calving the wildebeest synchronize their births, a strategy that provides a survival advantage for the species.

 

The calving in Ndutu is a part of this larger migratory loop. During calving the wildebeest spend several months in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area before moving northward and westward towards the Serengetiโ€™s central and western regions. The annual migration is a year-round cycle, covering several hundred kilometers in total. Wildebeest are constantly on the move in search of better grazing opportunities.

 

Why should you choose a calving season safari?

A calving season migration safari will offer incredible sightings of wildebeest and their newborns and an abundance of big cats looking for a successful hunt.

There is plenty of action and the majestic sight of the seemingly endless Serengeti plains dotted, as far as the eye can see, with grunting, grazing wildebeest. Not to mention adorable newborn animals aplenty.

THE ICONIC SUNDOWNER

 

Sunset is a great time to unwind while watching the wildlife in the distance. This is the time many people take to reflect on their safari day. This tradition, which is an essential part of most safaris, has its origins in the colonial era. A sundowner is โ€˜happy hourโ€™ in the African bush, at sunset. Your game drive will be spiced up with a Sundowner to round off your afternoon game-drive experience.

 

 

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What can you expect on an African sunset?

 

Typically, a variety of drinks and snacks are served against the breathtaking backdrop of an African sunset. Many camps have their own unique and exclusive African sundowner place to see this magical occasion. Guests are encouraged to simply sit back, relax, and soak in the ambience while listening to and watching the savannaโ€™s wildlife during a sundowner. The majority of sundowner sites also provide fantastic photo opportunity.

Just before the sun sets, your safari guide will look for an area with a view for your sundowner. The standard sundowner is gin and tonic, although others like local beers or wines.

A sundowner set-up might be as simple as a table and chairs or as elaborate as a blanket. Some people prefer to relax on pillows while gazing at the vibrant sky, while others prefer to simply stand. What more could you want than a refreshing drink, and a stunning sunset?

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Gemfinders Safaris.

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