What do a polar bear, a mountain gorilla, a Bengal tiger and a desert elephant have in common? They are awesome creatures, few in number, living in places that are spectacular, wild and fragile. I marvel that we live in an age when we can even come close to creatures like these, in the world’s remotest places. And that we can stay in exclusive comfort, in the company of expert guides. And that by travelling we can contribute to these animals’ survival.
I have built a team of Journeysmiths with the ability to match your dreams and aspirations to their knowledge and experience of the world’s extraordinary places. The outcome is a holiday of a lifetime every time you travel. Our holidays go beyond “tailormade” — they are uniquely crafted and arranged and we simply adore what we do.
LAURA BURDETT-MUNNS MANAGING DIRECTOR
WHO ARE JOURNEYSMITHS?
Choosing the right company to arrange your holiday to our world’s most complex and remote locations is vitally important. Like mankind, Journeysmiths’ roots are in Africa. 30 years ago John Burdett and Warwick Hoffman, the original Journeysmiths, founded Africa Exclusive. They were, and still are fired by a passion to show clients the wild world they love, in privacy and comfort. Today, driven by that same passion, Journeysmiths arranges the finest possible holidays to amazing places across five continents for our international clientele. Each trip is expertly arranged to exactly meet each client’s requirements and interests. We are proud of our exceptional level of service, which we believe sets us apart from other holiday companies.
WHY JOURNEYSMITHS?
• We have over 30 years experience
• Our holidays are beautifully engineered
• We are passionate about quality
• We are fastidious about those tiny details
• We listen carefully, each client is unique
• We are passionate about positive impacts
• Our clients have a dedicated expert consultant
• Our prices are fair
HELPING OUT
We are passionate about protecting the world’s most fragile environments. When you travel with us you are contributing to the protection of wildlife and the environment in partnership with local communities. As well as carefully selecting our partners around the world we also give 5% of our net profit each year to supporting charities and conservation efforts in the places we work.
FINANCIAL SECURITY
You have complete financial security when you book with Journeysmiths. We are fully bonded and licenced under the Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL scheme, licence number ATOL 2883 (Journeysmiths is a trading name of Africa Exclusive Ltd). This covers all clients who book their international flights from the UK and holiday arrangements through us. If you are arranging your own flights or you are not departing from the UK you are also protected by a separate insurance policy that we voluntarily maintain with Travel and General Insurance Services. This is called a Total Payment Protection Policy (TOPP) and the policy number is AELI/topp/20/14.
TRAVEL WELL
Travel to the world’s fragile places should benefit the habitats, wildlife and people who live there. We call this ‘travelling well’ and it is a feature of every safari we arrange.
It may seem counterintuitive that visiting a place could protect it, but staying at the right place can do just that. We actively favour safari lodges which work in partnership with local communities to conserve wildlife. We also support charities and NGOs working in our destinations.
We are fortunate enough to enjoy the incredible biodiversity this planet has to offer. We believe it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.
In the 30 year life of Journeysmiths, Africa's human population has doubled. The future of vulnerable species and iconic landscapes can only be assured by a mutually beneficial partnership between Africa's people and wildlife.
laura burdett - munns managing director
THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF YOUR TRIP
30 years ago we encountered Africa and fell in love with its awesome beauty. Ever since, we’ve been spreading the word, sharing our passion so that you too can experience the best of our world. In the best possible way. This means matching your individuality to a unique blend of places and experiences that fulfil your dreams and extend your horizons. It also means fighting to protect these fragile places.
The way we do this is simple but effective:
– We work with people who share our values
– We make it easy for you to see the positive impacts of your holiday
– We encourage you to get involved
– We donate a minimum of 5% of net profit to charity each year
Our planet’s remote places and wildlife are under constant threat from poaching, encroachment and climate change. We favour lodges which actively conserve the land and its wildlife. This requires dynamic partnerships with local communities which leads to them benefiting significantly from wildlife conservation.
We include details of initiatives run by each property you will visit in your travel itinerary, so that you can see the positive impact of your stay. Our team would also be delighted to discuss ways you can get more involved.
To help protect the amazing places we send our clients to; we donate 5% of our net profits each to charitable conservation projects within Africa.
We also work alongside charities that are dedicated to protecting endangered species, providing environmental education to local children and ensuring human-wildlife coexistence is sustained.
DATE SERVICE
DAY 1 ROAD TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 2 ROAD TRANSFER
LIGHT AIRCRAFT CHARTER FLIGHT
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 6
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
LIGHT AIRCRAFT CHARTER FLIGHT
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 9 ROAD TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 12
ROUTE & PROPERTY
NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
DURATION CLASS / ROOM TYPE
APPROX. 5 MINUTES PRIVATE
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON 1 NIGHT TRADITIONAL KING ROOM
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON TO WILSON AIRPORT
WILSON AIRPORT TO LOISABA AIRSTRIP
APPROX. 40 MINUTES PRIVATE
APPROX. 50 MINUTES PRIVATE
LOISABA AIRSTRIP TO LOISABA TENTED CAMP AS NEEDED PRIVATE
LOISABA TENTED CAMP WITH LOISABA STARBEDS 4 NIGHTS FAMILY SAFARI TENT
LOISABA TENTED CAMP TO LOISABA AIRSTRIP AS NEEDED PRIVATE
LOISABA AIRSTRIP TO KALAMA AIRSTRIP
APPROX. 30 MINUTES PRIVATE
KALAMA AIRSTIP TO SARUNI SAMBURU AS NEEDED PRIVATE
SARUNI SAMBURU 3 NIGHTS FAMILY VILLA
SARUNI SAMBURU TO SARARA TREEHOUSES
SARARA TREEHOUSES
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
APPROX. 2 HOURS PRIVATE
3 NIGHTS FAMILY TENT
SARARA TREEHOUSES TO SARARA AIRSTRIP AS NEEDED PRIVATE
DATE SERVICE
DAY 12 CONTINUED LIGHT AIRCRAFT CHARTER FLIGHT
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 16
GAME DRIVE TRANSFER
AT A GLANCE...
ROUTE & PROPERTY
SARARA AIRSTRIP TO NABOISHO AIRSTRIP
DURATION CLASS / ROOM TYPE
APPROX. 1 HOUR 20 MINUTES PRIVATE
NABOISHO AIRSTRIP TO ENCOUNTER MARA AS NEEDED PRIVATE
ENCOUNTER MARA 4 NIGHTS FAMILY TENT
ENCOUNTER MARA TO OL KIOMBO AIRSTRIP AS NEEDED PRIVATE
SCHEDULED LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT OL KIOMBO AIRSTRIP TO UKUNDA AIRPORT 1430 - 1625 SHARED
ROAD TRANSFER
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 20
ROAD TRANSFER
SCHEDULED LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT
ROAD TRANSFER
UKUNDA AIRPORT TO ALFAJIRI VILLAS APPROX. 10 MINUTES PRIVATE
ALFAJIRI VILLAS 4 NIGHTS VILLA
ALFAJIRI VILLAS TO UKUNDA AIRPORT APPROX. 10 MINUTES PRIVATE
UKUNDA AIRPORT TO WILSON AIRPORT 1530 - 1710 SHARED
WILSON AIRPORT TO NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (VIA TALISMAN RESTAURANT) AS NEEDED PRIVATE
WARREN SAMUELS
Your photographer and lead guide
When we consider a truly exceptional safari experience, it is impossible to ignore the indispensable part played by your guide. Knowledge is essential of course, as is experience and that uncanny gift of tracking and spotting a leopard in a tree. Just as important is your guide’s personality, sense of humour, an infectious love of the wilderness and the ability to communicate and inspire.
One of the finest guides in all these respects is Warren Samuels, popularly known for his outstanding photographic work on BBC wildlife
programmes “Big Cat Diaries” and "Serengeti", the 3rd series of which he is currently to be found filming in the Masai Mara.
Who better to accompany you and chronicle this remarkable experience for all the family? He is on hand if there are any budding photographers among the group who would like to improve their skills, and also to be a reassuring constant throughout your jourmey, helping to organise and co-host each days adventures in his easy, laid-back manner.
Growing up on a Kenyan coffee farm, Warren Samuels’ passion for wildlife photography began on family camping safaris in the Masai Mara National Reserve. As a young man he moved to South Africa and spent ten years as a guide, tracker and conservationist. Yet Kenya was his first love and eventually the opportunity arose to return as a specialist wildlife cameraman. When the BBC hit upon the idea of creating the “Big Cat Diary” Warren’s reputation made him the obvious choice as lead cameraman and his work on that series and with National Geographic has secured his reputation as one of the world’s finest wildlife photographers.
Alongside his mastery of the technical aspects of wildlife photography Warren also developed an intimate knowledge of and affection for specific locations and even particular herds and animals. During long months of patient watching and filming he acquired an innate understanding of animals’ behaviour. The sharing of this experience and understanding will make this safari particularly attractive.
Warren will personally guide and photograph every day of the safari alongside the wonderful local Samburu or Maasai guides from each lodge and camp. Each day a new adventure will begin as you explore the landscapes, visit Warren’s favourite spots and seek out the wildlife and birds. Precisely where you go and what you do each day can be agreed in response to opportunities that arise. This safari is not a masterclass in wildlife photography but whatever your interests and abilities with a camera you are sure to return home with some outstanding photographs. Warren will also be pleased to review and help to edit your photographs when you are relaxing in camp.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
JOURNEY
Arrive at Nairobi’s International Airport under your own arrangments
Private transfer to hotel
ACCOMMODATION
Four Points by Sheraton
Traditional King Room 1 night INCLUSIONS
Breakfast
Four Points by Sheraton is one of only two hotels located at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Each of the 172 guest rooms are light, spacious and comfortably furnished with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning making it the ideal place to spend a night at the beginning or end of your holiday.
The facilities at the hotel are superb and include a gym and rooftop swimming pool. There is 24hour dining available at Marketplace or fresh international cuisine served at the Tazama Rooftop Bar and Grill.
COMMUNITY
Sheraton’s parent company; Marriott runs a sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360. The brand commits to creating positive and sustainable impacts wherever the worldwide brand does business. One of their many accomplishments was the raising of US$7 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and UNICEF in 2019.
ENVIRONMENT
Marriott minimises their environmental footprint by sustainably managing energy and water use, reducing waste and carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy. They employ innovative technologies to plan, implement, track and communicate how they operate responsibly to mitigate climate-related risk.
DAYS
2 TO 5
JOURNEY
Game drive transfer to airstrip
Scheduled light aircraft flight to Loisaba Conservancy
Game drive transfer to camp
ACCOMMODATION
Loisaba Tented Camp
Family Safari Tent 4 nights
INCLUSIONS
Meals, soft drinks, local beers, wines and spirits, limited laundry service, and private activities: game drives, guided walks, bush breakfasts, sundowners, fishing, camel and horse riding within the Conservancy, mountain biking, village visits, visits to the conservancy HQ and sniffer dog experience.
Loisaba Tented Camp is perched upon the edge of a 500ft escarpment, offering dramatic views across the stunning panorama of the Laikipia Plains all the
way to Mount Kenya and the Matthews Mountain Range.
This spectacular environment is the perfect place in which to relax and explore; it is also a prime location for spotting wildlife due to its rich ecosystem ranging from high plains to escarpment walls and riverine bush. Throughout Loisaba roam the second largest population of elephant in Kenya, lion and leopard as well as the rare northern species that thrive here – gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, greater kudu, beisa oryx and reticulated giraffe.
Loisaba is also a wonderful location to view wild dog, and they can sometimes be seen pursuing prey in highly organised packs across the plains.
The tents are spacious and airy, with panoramic windows, polished wood floors and high ceilings. The decor is African inspired with a modern European twist. Just because you are immersed in the vast wilderness of Kenya doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on luxury – the plush bathrooms have flush toilets, double basin vanities and a solar heated rainfall shower.
At the main lodge there is a large dining area, open plan lounge and bar, and a wooden decking area ideal for sipping cold drinks while admiring the incredible view, and a stunning infinity pool, a welcome retreat from the heat of the day.
Loisaba is made for adventure, and in addition to day and night game drives in the comfort of custom designed Land Rovers, guests enjoy complete freedom to choose how they spend their time – the only barrier is your own imagination. Trek through the bush with camels or on horseback, take a fishing trip, or embark a fascinating guided bush walk where you will focus on the smaller flora and fauna often missed on game drives.
Drive through the wild canyons of the two great rivers which span the vast property, visit a traditional Samburu village or for the even more adventurous there is the opportunity to ride mountain bikes over the plains. At over 227km², Loisaba is immense – you could take months exploring this land and never encounter the same view twice.
A visit to Loisaba can be highly educational. The Nature Conservancy operates many conservation initiatives from Loisaba including research programs involving Space For Giants Elephant Foundation, the San Diego Zoo Global Reticulated Giraffe Research Program and Lion Landscapes. A visit to the Conservancy Head Quarters offers a wonderful opportunity to find out about the latest research and conservation concepts.
Loisaba’s conservation model is a multilateral approach involving community, conservation organisations, tourism partners, agricultural and research institutions. Learn about the cutting-edge concepts being used to sustain the future of this stunning wilderness and even head out with rangers tracking lion or visit the anti-poaching unit and meet the sniffer dogs.
On Nights 3 and 4 of your stay you will have the opportunity to spend a night in the Star Beds, an experience that is unique to Loisaba.
The Star Beds are part of an exciting joint venture project that Loisaba has undertaken in partnership with the Laikipiak Maasai people from the Koija community. Each Star Bed is dramatically designed on a handcrafted wooden raised platform.
The homemade four poster ‘Mukokoteni’ (uniquely designed bed on wheels) can either be wheeled onto the open deck area for a night under the stars, or left under the shelter of the roof. Each platform is en-suite and there is an authentic lounge and dining area where you are hosted by the camp manager and a team of traditional Samburu and Laikipiak Maasai warriors.
The Loisaba Conservancy is at the forefront of cuttingedge conservation efforts, with an aim to expand the scale of community conservancies across the region, protecting habitats for critical wildlife. The conservancy is also partnered with Space for Giants which funds elite anti-poaching teams across southern Africa and works to mitigate human/wildlife conflict.
During your stay, go behind the scenes to see Loisaba’s own anti-poaching unit in action.
COMMUNITY
Your stay at Loisaba Tented Camp includes a conservancy fee which supports the Loisaba Conservancy. Their community focussed business model encourages the protection of wildlife habitats in combination with sustainable livestock farming to provide reliable income for local communities while also funding healthcare and education.
ENVIRONMENT
Loisaba Tented Camp is a member of Ecotourism Kenya. The design of the camp aims to minimise the environmental footprint and interference with natural vegetation. Electricity is generated through a stateof-the-art solar power system with energy saving bulbs used in all rooms. Biodegradable soap and shampoos are sourced locally and provided for you to use during your stay.
DAYS 6 TO 8
JOURNEY
Game drive transfer to airstrip
Private light aircraft charted flight to Samburu
Game drive transfer to camp
ACCOMMODATION
Saruni Samburu
Family Villa 3 nights
INCLUSIONS
Meals, soft drinks, local beers, wines and spirits, bush meals and picnics, sundowners, laundry service, and shared activities: day and night game drives, guided walks, transfers to cultural visits, visits to the Samburu rock art caves and one complimentary back and neck massage per room. Warriors Academy is available at no extra charge if requested in advance. Visits to a cultural village or the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary are available at a small additional cost.
Samburu is incredibly beautiful and undoubtedly one of the best wildlife regions in Kenya. Its rugged hills, undulating plains and striking red soil provide
a stark contrast to the picturesque ribbon of green riverine woodland that borders the life giving Ewaso Nyiro River.
Located in the northern part of Kenya, Samburu offers sanctuary to an extraordinary variety of animals and for keen birders there are over 365 species of birds. Game viewing is excellent, and as well as boasting all the African big cats, it has several rare and striking species such as the reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, oryx and Grevy’s zebra. But above all Samburu is elephant country and your enduring impression of this magnificent wilderness region is likely to be a family of these extraordinary creatures bathing in the river right in front of you.
Saruni Samburu is located on the Kalama Conservancy right next to the Samburu National Reserve. Surrounded by 95,000 hectares of private wilderness and perched on top of a spectacular viewpoint, Saruni Samburu is a rare privilege for its handful of guests. Imaginatively designed by Kenyan architect Mark Glen, each of the six huge villas are a haven of peace and tranquillity and constructed from natural materials.
Two of the villas comprise a spacious bedroom looking out over the plains below and an equally vast bathroom with spectacular views. Four of the villas have two en-suite bedrooms and a separate living area, so are suitable for families or two couples travelling together. The wall-less design of the villas and creative harnessing of shade means that they are blissfully cool in the heat of the day without the need for intrusive air-conditioning. All the rooms are spaced apart along winding paths atop the rocks. You will always be able to find your own private spot to relax, reflect and feel completely at one with the beauty of the surroundings.
The main dining and sitting area are the perfect place to enjoy a drink as the sun sets behind the mountains in the distance. There are two large infinity pools, one at the top of the property and one slightly lower down the rocks that is sometimes used as a waterhole by local leopard.
The vastness and purity of the Samburu landscape, combined with the untouched local culture, makes for an incredibly authentic and distinctive safari experience. Throughout your stay you will be led by professional local Samburu guides and hosted by smiling and welcoming staff.
Day and night game drives in open top 4x4 vehicles, guided bush walks, bush meals and sundowners take place in the Samburu National Reserve, the Buffalo Springs National Reserve and on your private conservancy. The feeling of exclusivity as you roam your vast private wilderness is sure to be a highlight of your safari.
The traditions and semi-nomadic heritage of the local Samburu people are an important part of the experience, and over 90% of the staff here are from local families. The Samburu are always very keen to engage young and old alike in all manner of fascinating, educational activities that can range from learning simple bush craft and survival techniques to fashioning bows and arrows or even joining in a traditional Samburu dance. Guests are also encouraged to visit the nearby Samburu communities so as to gain a deeper understanding of their culture and daily practices.
A particular highlight of a stay here is “The Warriors Academy”, a special interactive wildlife safari with a strong educational flavour, designed especially for families or small groups. It is a fun experience that allows you to explore not only the wildlife, but the real life from some of the most well-known and culturally interesting cultures left in Africa, the Samburu. Under the tutelage of their warriors, get to know, enjoy and understand these unique people and see the Kenyan bush from a different perspective.
Experience bush skills, survival skills and tracking at first hand, learn about the folklore and ancient wisdom needed to survive in this rich wildlife region, visit an original Samburu village, learn how to use bow and arrows, pangas and spears, even build a bush camp! Share time with real warriors while they walk, sing, track and live the traditional life in this phase of their existence.
CONSERVATION
The lodge is the only tourism activity withing the Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, a 240,000-acre wildlife sanctuary owned by people of the Samburu community. The area hosts a great variety of wildlife which, since the opening of Samburu in 2008, has visibly increased. The income generated by the lodge contributes in a significant way to the running of the conservancy (rangers, vehicles, anti-poaching & security).
COMMUNITY
Saruni Samburu is the only lodge in Kalama Conservancy, and the sole source of income for the communities in the area. Since its opening, Saruni Samburu has provided jobs, income, training and guidance for the local Samburu people. Tourism directly supports conservation –by visiting Saruni Samburu, you are directly giving back to the community who protects this beautiful land, improving their quality of life, while at the same time encouraging the purpose for conservation.
ENVIRONMENT
Saruni Samburu is classified by ESOK (Eco Tourism Kenya) as a silver-rated facility thanks to its environmental policies including solar powered systems, collection and storage of rainwater, use of biodegradable cleaning products, protection of the environment and its vegetation, correct disposal of toxic waste, recycling and the elimination of most plastic bottles. The footprint of the camp is very small, with all buildings created around natural features and the structure fully integrated in the landscape.
DAYS 9 TO 11
JOURNEY
Private road transfer to Sarara
ACCOMMODATION
Sarara Treehouses
Family Tent
3 nights
INCLUSIONS
Meals, soft drinks, local beers, wines and spirits, bush meals, limited laundry service and activities: privately guided day and night game drives, guided walks, hiking in the cloud forest, guided trail runs with Samburu running guides, visits to the Singing Wells (seasonal) and overnight flycamping (mobilisation fee payable).
Entrance fees are applicable for cultural visits, to a local village, beading with the Samburu ladies, making jewellery with Samburu Ironmongers, visits to the Nomadic Montessori Schools and Nomadic Healthcare Programs or the Reteti Elephant Orphanage. Horse riding for advanced riders is available at additional cost.
Sarara Treehouses is one of the most remote and delightfully situated camps in Kenya, set in a vast and beautiful wilderness on the edge of the Mathews Mountain Range.This is a private reserve owned by the local Namunyak community who work closely with the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to protect and run the reserve.
Because so few tourists visit Namunyak, finding the wildlife is a little more challenging than in other better-known parts of Kenya, although there is still a wide variety of species that call this area home. Leopard sightings are becoming very regular, while lion, cheetah and packs of rare wild dog are also spotted on occasion.
Antelope are regularly seen including the shy lesser kudu, impala and hundreds of elephant inhabit the area. Rare northern species such as Grevy’s zebra and the little gerenuk antelope, which stands on its hind legs to feed, are also found near Sarara and the birdlife is particularly abundant and varied.
The accommodation is in just eight beautifully appointed ‘tents’, raised on stilts and joined by wooden walkways, each with king-sized double bed, safari furniture, and en-suite bathroom with open-air bush shower. Completely solar-powered and eco-friendly, the camp blends seamlessly into its natural environment.
The main thatched dining and lounge area overlooks a beautiful waterhole and has views of Mount Uarges, one of the seven sacred mountains to the Samburu people. The camp’s centrepiece is undoubtedly its impressive swimming pool, which is surrounded by sun loungers – ideal for taking in the sweeping views. Elephants trundle by beneath you giving you exclusive game-viewing within pristine wilderness.
The main activities here are day and night game drives as well as fascinating bush walks along river valleys, through forests and up into the hills, being certain to encounter no other tourists as your expert Namunyak guide shows you the birds, wildlife and vegetation of this beautiful area. Visits to local rock art sites, swimming in natural rock pools, and fly camping are some of the additional adventurous activities that can be arranged from Sarara, again all in a huge degree of privacy and surrounded by natural beauty.
The local community are a vibrant part of life at Sarara and visits to villages, schools and markets can be arranged to give an insight into life in this isolated location. One totally unique activity to enjoy is a visit to the famous singing wells; this age-old daily tradition amongst the Samburu people involves local families taking their cattle to the wells where they dig for water to fill up troughs. Each family owns one well, and they sing to their livestock as they dig – the cows recognize their family song and come down to their well to be watered. Families also take the opportunity to share stories and pass on messages with their neighbours – Sarara actually means ‘meeting place’ in Samburu. The activity has been taking place for hundreds of years, remaining unchanged and unspoiled. This unusual yet fascinating interaction is often one of the highlights of any stay at Sarara.
On Day 10 you will enjoy a private visit to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. This is a particularly enlightening experience and something that, like its namesake, guests will never forget. A rescue and haven for abandoned and orphaned calves, this is the only community-owned elephant orphanage in Africa, with all the employees coming from the local Samburu villages. You will not only gain a deeper
understanding about their rescue operations, but also meet any orphaned calves they currently have in residence, learning how they are paving the way for conservation education in the area while providing valuable employment opportunities (a $20 donation on the day helps provide care and upkeep at the sanctuary).
On Day 11 you will spend the afternoon traversing the ancient migration routes of Samburuland on foot. Meet local tribes, learn and experience their traditions unchanged for hundreds of years. Walk through the beautiful forests and glades and onto a dry river-bed, where a basic, private fly-camp will be set up for you to all spend a night under the stars.
The evening is spent sitting around the campfire under a starry sky, cooking on the open fire, regaling the day’s adventures and hearing some fascinating stories from the Samburu’s lives in the bush. Listen with tingling spine to the sawing cough of the leopard or the cackle of a hyena in the night
air. A chef stands ready to prepare a traditional Kenyan three course meal on the fire using cast iron black pots and grills.
The large tents are made from a fine mesh, protecting you, yet allowing you to stare up at the starscape. Foam mattresses, quality linen, cushions and hot water bottles will make drifting away into a relaxed sleep an easy endeavour, though many guests prefer to stay awake and absorb the sounds of the African night before being lulled to sleep by the nightjars.
Reteti represents an ever-growing movement of grassroots level, community focused conservation that is gaining huge momentum in Northern Kenya. It is designed to rescue and release orphaned and abandoned elephant calves, whilst creating much
needed benefits to the local people that live alongside them. This is seen through the representation of the communities standing up for wildlife, in recognition of the value that they can cultivate.
COMMUNITY
The mobile Montessori program provides access to effective and relevant education to the Samburu community living within Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy. The program remains sensitive to traditions, and offer a highly effective and practical form of learning. The entire teaching team is from the local community and is managed by AMI, Association Monterssori Internationale.
ENVIRONMENT
All Sarara initiatives strive to leave as low an environmental footprint as possible. The camp is entirely solar powered, using Tesla Powerwalls and SMA technology through a highly effective program with the GivePower foundation. This power has allowed for the construction of the Reteti Laboratory, which provides quick time analysis for individualised care of the elephant orphans. Each room has solar powered hot water units, and all shower and cleaning products are ecofriendly and organic.
All meals, soft drinks, local beers and wines, limited laundry and shared activities; day and night game drives and guided walks DAYS 12 TO 15
JOURNEY
Road transfer to airstrip
Private light aircraft charter flight to Masai Mara
Game drive transfer to camp
ACCOMMODATION
Encounter Mara Family Tent
4 nights INCLUSIONS
Adjoining the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, the Masai Mara is one of the world’s most famous and spectacular game viewing regions.
Covering an area of over 1800 square kilometres, vast expanses of undulating grassy plains roll from horizon to horizon dotted with acacia trees and isolated rocky outcrops.
These rich grasslands and watering places sustain thousands of elephant, graceful-looking giraffe and big herds of buffalo, zebra and wildebeest. A host of smaller creatures such as baboon, warthog, hyena and jackal call the Mara home, while there are also myriad antelope species, from fleet-footed topi to majestic-looking kudu and diminutive dik dik. It is perhaps the only region left in Kenya where visitors may see iconic African wildlife in the same super abundance as existed a century ago.
The Mara is home to the largest population of lions in Kenya and these magnificent beasts spend most the day sleeping in the shade of acacia trees as vast herds of zebra, gazelle and wildebeest roam the plains. The smaller plains game are often targets for cheetah and they can be seen chasing down prey across these expansive grasslands.
The waters of the Mara River are renowned for huge numbers of crocodiles and pods of hippo, whilst the acacia woodlands and riverine forests are favoured by opportunistic leopard who use their stealth and cunning to ambush antelope and other smaller creatures.
The birdlife in the Mara region is equally as abundant and even more varied. Eagles soar high overhead, vultures dance around carcasses, and hundreds of other species of beautiful birds both great and small provide a continual source of interest.
From July to October the annual migration of over two million wildebeest, zebra and antelope passes through the Masai Mara creating one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles with seemingly endless lines of wildebeest strung out as far as the eye can see across the plains and plunging into the rivers braving crocodile jaws in one of the most exciting events in the natural world.
Nestled within lush acacia forest, Encounter Mara is a wonderfully authentic tented camp. Located in the 50,000-acre Naboisho Conservancy, the camp is in the heart of the action where, in between activities, you can sit back from the comfort of your own veranda watching giraffe or herds of zebra grazing on the plains surrounding the camp. Added to this there are more lion and cheetah on this conservancy per square kilometre than any other area in Kenya and you will share this wildlife with the fewest number of tourists anywhere in the greater Masai Mara area.
With only ten tents in total, this intimate camp, its local staff and surrounding incredible scenery creates a warm and friendly environment. Each of the spacious tents has comfortable furnishings, an en-suite bathroom and traditional bush shower. The lounge area boasts breath-taking open views towards a salt lick which attracts animals throughout the day, giving you the opportunity to view wildlife without setting foot out of the camp.
As the camp is situated on a private conservancy, there is plenty of opportunity to take part in a variety of activities. Game drives are a must and are the best way to get up close and personal to all of the big game in the region. They can be enjoyed during the day and in the evenings when you will be accompanied by a local Maasai guide who will use their expertise to ensure that you enjoy the ultimate African safari experience.
The rolling hills, vast open plains, and thick forest of the Naboisho Conservancy offers the opportunity to experience exhilarating walking safaris, looking more closely at the flora and fauna surrounding you and tracking animals on foot.
One day you may choose to head out on a full day game drive into the Masai Mara National Reserve itself, possibly heading towards the rivers and key crossing points if the migration is passing through the region.
You may then stop for a picnic lunch under an acacia tree before making your way back to camp.
Another day you may choose to explore the private wilderness area surrounding the camp and so avoiding the crowds and minibuses commonly found in the reserve proper.
Encounter Mara Camp truly embodies a “best of both worlds” camp and allows you to enjoy every aspect of this magical land to the fullest.
There is also a strong cultural focus at the camp with staff and guides keen to pass on the bush craft and knowledge passed down to them through many generations. The camp has strong ties and gives great support to local communities and they will always be keen for you to visit a local manyatta to gain an understanding of the way of life of these semi-nomadic people in a very authentic way – free from gimmicks and pressure to purchase items. The owners are very careful to visit villages only rarely in order that guests can experience a true reflection of Maasai life.
On Day 14 you will all enjoy an exciting hot-air balloon safari. As the sun rises the balloon slowly lifts above the trees to catch the early morning current. Drifting silently above the ground reveals a new dimension to the landscape of the Loita Hills and Masai Mara. During the one-hour flight you may see wildebeest, buffalo, elephant and lion before descending slowly onto the open plain. A sumptuous champagne breakfast is served before returning to the camp.
CONSERVATION
Asilia, Encounter Mara’s parent company, partners with Mara Elephant Project. Their work includes elephant collaring, monitoring and research, anti-poaching patrols, rapid response units and mitigating human-wildlife conflict through education as well as providing practical support to communities.
ENVIRONMENT
Asilia have dedicated themselves to “responsible tourism” in all of their camps throughout Africa. Their CO2 offset project has protected 17.4 hectares of dryland forest, greatly thankful to the fact that 90% of electricity in their camps is from renewable sources. As a result, the camp has been awarded a gold Eco-rating from Ecotourism Kenya.
Encounter Mara offers visits to the women’s beadwork group at The Maa Trust headquarters, a trust that the camp partners with. The Masai women here use traditional skills to make beaded jewellery. The non-profit organisation works closely with communities in the Masai Mara to protect conservancies and the people that live within them.
DAYS 16 TO 19
JOURNEY
Game drive to airstrip
Scheduled light aircraft flight to Ukunda Airport
Private road transfer to villas
ACCOMMODATION
Alfajiri Villas
Garden Villa, Cliff Villa or Beach Villa
4 nights
INCLUSIONS
All meals, soft drinks, local beers, wines and selected spirits, laundry service, personal butler service, use of snorkelling equipment, use of local African boats for reef snorkelling trips, chauffeured transports within Diani area, visits to local villages and one massage per adult per day
Alfajiri is one of the most stylish and exclusive collection of villas in the world, and are all set in a beautiful position nestled amongst tropical forests overlooking a peaceful stretch of the white sands of the Diani Beach on Kenya’s south coast. Alfajiri is made up of three spectacular villas each stylishly designed and decorated with authentic African artwork – Cliff Villa, Beach Villa and Garden Villa, each providing an exclusive and luxurious retreat for a limited number of guests.
The Garden Villa is magnificent with a vast dining room and lounge under immense thatched roofs leading to an infinity pool. Each of the four airconditioned rooms (three doubles and one twin) has a bright and airy design with four poster beds, African artefacts and a spacious fully equipped bathroom. Each room has superb ocean views and the bathroom overlooks the beautifully manicured gardens.
Cliff Villa is perfect for families or a couple seeking the ultimate luxury. It has three double bedrooms and one twin. The penthouse Turret Suite makes up the villa’s top floor and offers magnificent 270-degree ocean views through huge picture windows.
Beach Villa has four spacious guest rooms, three doubles and one twin, four bathrooms, a sparkling overflow swimming pool, a spacious veranda providing wonderful views towards the Indian Ocean and its own dining room where delicious tailor-made meals are served.
The cuisine at Alfajiri is among the finest in Kenya with Mediterranean and Oriental influences. Many of the meals focus upon locally caught seafood caught that day from beach fisherman and all vegetables, fruit and salads are sourced from nearby farms and orchards. These are complemented by European cheeses, wines and parma ham specially imported by Alfajiri’s charming Italian owners and hosts, husband and wife Fabrizio and Marica. Anything is possible at Alfajiri, with the Fabricio and Marcia happy to cater for any individual tastes and dietary requirements, and various activities.
Guests can enjoy a wide range of water-sports including snorkelling, diving, sailing, deep sea fishing, visits to local community projects and you can relax between activities and enjoy complimentary spa treatments. Chauffeured transfers to the Diani Beach area are also included free of charge if you would like to explore further afield. Alfajiri has consistently been awarded top ratings by Conde Nast, Harpers and Queen amongst other travel guides and is one of the finest places to relax on the African coast.
COMMUNITY
Alfajiri provides some of the best Mediterranean-style food in the area while supporting the local community, winning Best Safari Cuisine in Kenya every year since 2014. All seafood is bought locally and daily, including, shellfish, yellowfin tuna, dorado and snapper. This provides essential income to the local community and it means chefs have the freedom to develop personal daily menus based on each guest’s preference.
ENVIRONMENT
Alfajiri uses ngalawa, local outrigger boats, to offer guests snorkelling excursions to the coral reef. These boats are specifically used as they have a shallow design with no engines. This means that guests can enjoy unpolluted, crystal-clear water, and undamaged coral reef. The noise-free boats also ensure a wide variety of aquatic species for plenty of underwater photo opportunities while causing minimal disturbance to the natural environment.
DAY 20
JOURNEY
Private road transfer to Ukunda Airport
Scheduled light aircraft flight to Wilson Airport
Private road transfer to Nairobi (via Talisman restaurant for lunch)
International flight home booked under own arrangements
FURTHER INFORMATION
Inclusions:
• Accommodation as detailed
• Warren Samuels - Private Guide and Photographer (15 days)
• Private light aircraft charter flights
• Internal scheduled light aircraft flights
• Private road transfers
• Meals and drinks as listed
Exclusions:
• Any items not detailed in the travel itinerary
• Tips
Notes:
• Game viewing activities as listed
• Cultural activities amd visits as detailed
• Private Reteti Elephant Sanctuary Visit
• Private Fly Camping at Sarara
• Balloon Safari in Masai Mara
• Pre-payable park fees
• International flights
Inclusions are subject to change at the discretion of the property.
Luggage is restricted to 15kg per person on light aircraft flights within Kenya, it is usually possible to store additional luggage if required at a nominal additional cost.
In some circumstances passengers weighing 100kg or more may require an extra seat on light aircraft flights for comfort and safety purposes. Please note that additional charges for those exceeding the above weight restrictions may be made by the aircraft operators at check-in, alternatively we can book additional seats in advance to avoid additional costs once your holiday has commenced.
All the photos contained in this itinerary are illustrative of the lodges, transport and sights you will see on your holiday. Please note however that we cannot guarantee that you will see all the animals and birds shown as these are wild creatures and not under our control. Equally where specific food or drink, or furniture/furnishings are shown, these may not be identical to those you will experience.
If flights have been included within your booking then unless provisionally held for you, these are subject to change and any increases in fares at the time of booking will be passed on. Similarly, if booking a trip inclusive of flights more than 11 months in advance we will try to give as accurate an indicative cost as possible, but exact flight costs will need to be obtained once flight fares become available and as such, any variance will be reflected in your final balance.
The nature of our holidays means that they may not be suitable for people with reduced mobility. If you have reduced mobility or any specific medical requirements, please ensure that you discuss these with your travel designer prior to booking your holiday.
