Safari sensation

Kenya has long been internationally famous for its wildlife. The lions of the Mara and the elephant of Amboseli being frequent stars of TV dramas and best-selling novels.

Yet in other ways this gem of East Africa is almost undiscovered. With the greatest game concentrations in Africa, one can understand why the safari was conceived here. However, huge parts of the country see very few visitors, pristine wilderness regions where life proceeds at a traditional pace. Throughout some of the best wildlife areas local communities are cautiously gearing up to accommodate small groups of visitors, combining 21st century luxuries with a wholly authentic introduction into a way of life where braided hair and ochre face-paint is not a fashion but a way of life, where warriors wear red robes to warn off lions, not for style.

These new community developments are vital steps in preserving Africa’s wildlife, offering unique opportunities to experience Kenya in all its untouched beauty without the crowds. Some of the best-run camps and lodges operate under these eco-friendly principles, limiting visitor numbers to minimise strain on the environment and letting a privileged few experience wild Africa in glorious peace and isolation. Shompole, Olonana and Ol Donyo Wuas are just some of the lodges that operate in pristine, privately-run reserves outside the National Park network–and are all the better for it.

Experiences can always be tailored by Abercrombie & Kent to match your requirements. You can explore spectacular landscapes (that could never be reached by car) on camel, tracking the arid northern regions, protected by nature from human development. Interested in birds but not crowds? Head down to lakes Natron or Magadi or up into the mountainous landscapes of the Aberdares: these superb wilderness regions are well beyond the imaginations of most of Kenya’s safari convoys hut vital and rewarding for those whose interest goes deeper. Are you interested in lions? Meru National Park is ‘Born Free’ country, a haven for wildlife where there’s almost no chance of running into other safari vehicles. A main road runs between Tsavo East and Tsavo West, and. usefully, this means you know where all the safari vehicles will be. Most of Tsavo West is almost unexplored, perfect country for an A&K mobile tented safari. Feel like an aerial view? Board a light plane and fly north, to luxury hideaways in the game-rich ranchlands of the Laikipia Plateau.

Upcountry Kenya has a superb climate, with an altitude that ensures warm days and cool nights. Head down to the coast and the temperature rises, perfectly suiting some time on the beach. For a short break at the end of a safari or as a standalone beach holiday in its own right, Kenya has options to suit all tastes. In the south, AlFajiri is perhaps the most luxurious villa in Africa, poised over the sands of Diani Beach. Head north to Watamu and Hemingways celebrates the big-game fishing culture, but it’s also ideal for divers and snorkellers, with a marine park just offshore. Fly further to the island of Lamu, glamorous and remote, where there’s only one car–owned by the District Commissioner–and transport is by dhow or donkey, where Kipungani Bay is gloriously remote.

Kenya can be visited year-round. Traditionally the migration season is its busiest in August and September. Travel off-season and you’ll have good hotel rates, less crowds, and a greater chance of having camps to yourself.

Kenya, where the safari was born–still the best place to experience authentic Africa.

For further information about Kenya contact one of our specialist Africa travel consultants on 0845 0700 611 or visit www.abercrombiekent.co.uk