Magical Kenya Safari (k1)

Lake Nakuru National Park lies 140km north west of Nairobi in central Kenya. The ecosystem comprises of the lake, surrounded by mainly wooded and bushy grasslands. At the park you have a good chance to see the black and white rhinos, giraffe, waterbucks, lion, cheetah, leopard among other game. However, the biggest attraction remains to be the vast quantity of flamingoes that line the shore. The park is also home to a myriad of other bird species such as fish eating pelican, African fish eagle , king fisher, hamer kop and goliath hero.

Masai Mara National Reserve is situated within the Great Rift Valley in the southern part of Kenya. Measuring approximately 1510sq. kilometres (approx. 938sq. miles) in size, this unfenced savannah grassland is roughly 150 miles southeast of Nairobi. The Mara, as is also known is one of the best places to visit in Africa. It boasts of an immense variety of wildlife ranging from the big five (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo) to over 400 species of birds. Other animals present include zebras, antelope, gnus, hyenas, gazelles, hippos, hartebeests, warthogs, crocodiles and others. The Mara River offers a unique attraction during the annual wildebeest migration. Over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras and several species of antelope make an annual circular tour between the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures. This has now become the new 7th wonder of the world.

Balloon Safari is a great excursion for those who are willing to spend a little extra; the overflights can be organised from most lodges/camps in the Maasai Mara. The balloon safari offers an fantastic panoramic views of the awe-inspiring landscape. After an early tea/coffee, you will start this exciting experience. The balloons lift off just before sunrise, once airborne the balloons are blown by the prevailing winds across the broad landscape. At the end of the flight, you will be treated with a champagne breakfast in the bush!

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake lying North West of Nairobi, outside the town of Naivasha. It is part of the Great Rift Valley. Lake area varies greatly according to rainfall, with an average range between 114 and 991 sq. kms. The waters of the lake draw a great range of game to these shores. Giraffes wander among the acacia, Buffalo wallow in the swamps and Colobus monkeys call from the treetops while the lakes large hippo population sleeps the day out in the shallows. The region surrounding the Lake is well worth exploring. Lake Naivasha is encircled by impressive mountains. On the eastern wall of the rift valley is the Aberdares Range (rising to 4265 mt). To the west is the Mau Escarpment at (3117 mt). To the north you can see Eburru at (2950 mt) and to the south is the impressive Mount Longonot with its awesome crater and which is a popular climb. It rises to 2776 mt. South of Lake Naivasha you will find the green Crater Lake, which is part of Crater Lake Game Sanctuary. To the south of Naivasha is Hell's Gate National Park, its famous for its cliffs and scenery. Its an excellent place for cycling and walking into the spectacular gorge. The gorge has hot springs and fascinating rock formations, which are used as a location for film "Tomb Raider". Hell's gate got its name from the geothermal area where the underground steam is harnessed for electricity. Crescent Island on the eastern shore, is the rim of a submerged crater. Parts of the movie "Out of Africa", about the life of Karen Blixen, were shot here. It is privately owned, but one can arrive by boat or car and take a pleasant walk.

The Great Migration. Every year the Mara is the staging ground of one of nature's greatest spectacles: the migration of over 1.3 million wildebeest from the Serengeti. A surging column of life, these massive herds pour across the plains, bringing the Mara to life. The profusion of grazing animals makes the Mara a perfect hunting ground for predators. Leopard and Cheetah are often seen, but the Mara is truly the Kingdom of the Lion, and these majestic predators dominate the landscape. To travel through the reserve in August, September or October, while the wildebeest are in possession, is a staggering experience, like being caught up in the momentum of a phenomenal historic event.

The Kenyan Coastline is a paradise of palm fringed beaches and the warm inviting waters of the Indian Ocean. Extensive Coral reef systems with spectacular sea life make for world class diving and snorkelling. These waters were once the highways of the spice trade and Arab and Portuguese forts, Old Towns and the overgrown, deserted ruins of Swahili outposts bear witness to this fascinating history. In the winding medieval streets and bustling markets of Lamu and Mombasa Old Town, life has continued unhurried and unchanged for more than 400 years. Much of the coast is bordered by lush green coastal rainforests with prolific birdlife and variety of wildlife including baboons, rare colobus monkeys and even leopard. The protective reefs of Kenya ?s coast have created ideal beaches with calm, clear waters. Days on the coast are filled with sunshine and nights are balmy and warm with gentle sea breezes.