Kenya is justifiably regarded as one of the leading safari destinations, offering some of the most prolific wildlife viewing in the world. The Masai Mara is a 750 square-mile conservation area, which forms part of the vast Serengeti Plains and is home to the nomadic Masai tribes people. The region is renowned for its spectacular sunsets and stunning scenery: mountains, rolling hillsides, vast areas of Savannah dotted with distinctive, flat-topped acacia trees, grasslands, forest and lakes.
All of the “big five” species of mammals – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffalo – can be found wandering freely across the plains, and there are opportunities to spot gazelle, baboons, zebra, giraffe, hyena, impala, ostriches and much, much more. By the waterholes you will also encounter crocodiles, hippos and a multitude of different bird species, including brightly-colored flamingos.
To see all of these creatures in their natural habitat is an experience not to be missed, and between July and September, the “greatest show on earth” takes place, with the annual wildebeest migration across the Mara River. This is one of the highlights of the year, as over a million wildebeest, accompanied by herds of zebra and antelope, migrate from Tanzania in search of food.
Safari holidays can be taken all year round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, between January and March and July to October. Many different safari packages are available, including ones that are “child friendly”, and can range from 3 days to 15 days. Accommodation is normally in lodges, although some longer safaris might involve camping. Many tour companies offer the opportunity to combine a safari trip with a beach holiday, giving you the best of both worlds.
One of the most famous safari lodges is Treetops in the Aberdares National Park, a hotel designed to look like a huge tree-house on stilts. Its terraces are ideal for observing wildlife, and all bedrooms overlook the waterholes. Whenever something of note occurs, a bell rings throughout the hotel to alert guests.
The Samburu Game Lodge in Samburu National Park, on the banks of the Ewaso Nyra River, is set in 10 acres of forest, against a backdrop of volcanic mountains. Accommodation is in modern cottages, with all rooms en-suite. Its most unusual feature is the Crocodile Bar, which is on a level with the riverbank for excellent sightings of crocodiles, elephants and leopards whilst enjoying a cooling drink.
The Amboseli region is remarkable for its birdlife, with over 400 species to be found, in addition to an abundance of game. Lake Naivasha is a good centre for your safari in this region, with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro; and you can participate in many other activities, including horse-riding, boating, fishing, cycling and trekking the wonderful nature trails.
The most spectacular way to view the Masai Mara is by taking a balloon flight at dawn. Several tour companies offer these trips, which usually include a champagne breakfast.