| KENYA
SAFARIS
Kenya safaris are available year-round, although the
best game-viewing periods are during the dry winter
months of May through August and the warmer spring
months of September and October. Listed below are
all safaris that are a truly unique experience!
The highlight of most Kenya safaris is the world-famous
Masai Mara National Reserve, widely regarded as the
best game-viewing park in Kenya. The "Big Five"
(lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants and rhinos)
which reside in large prides, may be spotted here
and the ability to observe them at close range astonishes
most first-time visitors. The Mara River, a natural
boundary between Kenya and Tanzania, sets the stage
for the twice-yearly spectacle of wildebeest and zebra
herds that migrate annually to Masai Mara from the
parched Serengeti plains of neighbouring Tanzania.
Some Kenya safaris also visit Masai villages, where
guests can interact with local cattle-herders. You
can also enjoy early morning balloon rides.
In the heart of Masai land, lies Kenya's Amboseli
National Park which offers extraordinary views of
Mount Kilimanjaro, only 30 miles away in Tanzania.
It is best known for its big game like large elephant
population, baboon, herds of buffalo, giraffe, ostrich,
lion, cheetah and impala, all sighted here as well.
The swamps provide superb habitats for many species
of birds.
The Samburu Game Reserve lies in Kenya's semi-arid,
rugged northern region and it is a small oasis that
is home to many rare animals, including, long-necked
gerenuk antelopes, Somali ostriches and reticulated
giraffes. Crocodiles line the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro
River, where families of hippo have recently established
residency. In addition, Elephant can be sighted, as
well as leopard, lion, oryx and cheetah.
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Many Kenya safaris also visit Lake Nakuru National
Park, that is considered to be one of the finest places
for bird-watching, home to thousands of flamingoes
and other waterfowl. It is a relatively small preserve
that shares its name with Lake Nakuru and has been
designated as a rhino sanctuary. Large populations
of baboons and waterbuck can also be sighted. The
Rothschild giraffe can be found in only this park.
Aberdares National Park is a small reserve comprised
mostly of forest and much of the Aberdares mountain
range lies within its borders. It is well known for
sightings of lion, elephant, hyena, rhino, baboon,
buffalo and several varieties of antelope, genet cat
and bush babies. At sunset, the excitement begins
as the animals venture to the floodlit salt licks
and watering holes.
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Visit Mount Kenya which is a dramatic backdrop for
beautiful gardens of the Mount Kenya Safari Club.
A stop here provides an opportunity to luxuriate at
the health club. Enjoy games like: Tennis, golf, horseback
riding and swimming which are available. On the premises,
enjoy close contact with several species at the wonderful
animal orphanage.
Extensive semi-arid plains dominate Tsavo West National
Park which is a must visit! More than 60 species of
mammals have been sighted here, including elephant
and buffalo. The highlight of the park is Mzima Springs,
a geological wonder of water seeping through volcanic
rock to form clear pools lushly surrounded with greenery.
Here you can walk down to an underwater viewing platform
in the hope of observing hippo as curious Vervet monkeys
jump around.
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You cannot talk about touring in Kenya without mentioning
Mombasa city that lies on the coast with a history
stretching back to the 12th century. Here, you'll
discover Mombasa's ancient history even today in the
structures that still stand, such as the Fort Jesus.
Apart from the beautiful beaches, you'll also discover
a vibrant mixture of cultures, architecture and entertainment.
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