2008
Laikipia & Mara
An enchanting twin centre flying safari visiting the remote and beguiling Loisaba Wilderness, a private wildlife conservancy bordering the Laikipia plateau north of Mount Kenya, and the game rich Masai Mara National Reserve in western Kenya – home to the Big Cat Diaries.
Our opinion
Ideal for repeat visitors looking to experience a new area of Kenya whilst still experiencing the majesty of the Mara.
Itinerary
- Nairobi: 1 night
- Loisaba: 4 nights
- Masi Mara: 3 nights
Day 1 to Day 2 London/Nairobi
British Airways overnight flight from Heathrow to Nairobi.
Day 2 to Day 3 Nairobi
On arrival transfer to the delightful and relaxing ambience of Ngong House in the Nairobi suburbs for one night.
Day 3 to Day 7 Nairobi/Loisaba
Early morning Safarilink flight to Nanyuki and onwards to Loisaba. The Wilderness is the same size as the Ngorongoro crater and is a haven for over 250 species of birds and 50 species of animals including elephant, buffalo, big cats and wild dogs. Spend three nights at Loisaba Lodge, beautifully constructed out of stone, timber and thatch and perched high on the plateau. Each room has French windows opening onto a private deck where the views are legendary and the waterhole below draws continuous wildlife. The lodge also has a swimming pool, tennis court and croquet lawn. The fourth night will be at its famous and unique ‘Star Beds’, each dramatically designed on a wooden platform with a thatched roof. The bed can be wheeled onto the open deck area for an unforgettable night under the stars. Each comes with four-poster style insect netting and en suite camp style bathroom. You are hosted and guided by traditional Samburu and Masai warriors. Activities at Loisaba include day and night game drives, walking, horse riding, mountain biking, bush breakfasts, sundowners, fishing, river rafting and the health spa.
Day 7 to Day 10 Loisaba/Masi Mar
Return to Nanyuki for your Safarilink flight to the Masai Mara, and three nights at Olonana, a small and luxurious tented camp on its northern edge and set on the banks of the Mara river. Just 12 tents are tastefully furnished with two queen beds, en suite bathrooms and terraces overlooking the river where you can watch the hippos wallowing. The main cottage houses a library, lounge, dining area and a swimming pool. An added feature is the interaction with the local Masai community, where you can meet locals and learn of their culture and way of life. Your game viewing is sure to be rewarded with fantastic sightings from the camp’s open 4x4 vehicles on morning and afternoon drives.
Day 10 to Day 11 Nairobi/London
Return by Safarilink to Nairobi for your British Airways overnight flight to Heathrow, arriving the following day. Alternatively stay overnight at Ngong House then fly to the Seychelles for four nights at The Banyan Tree in a Hill villa. Return with Air Seychelles to Heathrow suitably refreshed.
