CLASSIC KENYA & UGANDA

A light aircraft flight from Nairobi, followed by a short 30-minute boat transfer, will bring you to Manda Bay. This secluded beach hideaway sits on the northwestern tip of Manda Island, a member of Kenya’s idyllic Lamu Archipelago.

Surrounded by soft white sand beaches that merge into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, relaxation comes easy at Manda Bay. You can take it slow by the landscaped pool, or choose from an enticing menu of water sports that include snorkelling on spectacular coral reefs, kite surfing and deep sea fishing. The island has some lovely birds to look out for, whilst early evening game drives in the bush behind the lodge offers encounters with the likes of buffalo, dik-dik and bushbuck.

Stay: Four nights at Manda Bay

Bidding Kenya’s dreamy coast goodbye, today you’ll journey to your luxury safari lodge in the heart of the Laikipia Plateau. Close by the Ewaso Narok River in the shadow of Mount Kenya, Sosian’s 24,000-acre working cattle ranch promises both a unique and quality safari.

Alongside rare and endangered species like Jackson’s hartebeest, oryx and Grevy’s zebra, the conservancy’s grassy plains and acacia woodland play host to gazelle, cheetah, buffalo, lion, giraffe and wild dog. Elephants can be seen here in large numbers, whilst birders may tick off over 350 different varieties. You can enjoy classic game drives and bush walks, as well as fishing, kayaking and fantastic riding safaris on well-schooled horses. Cultural visits to neighbouring villages can also be arranged.

Stay: Three nights at Sosian

From Laikipia, you’ll journey deep into the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve for three nights of awe-inspiring game viewing. Your luxury tented camp is tucked into a shady grove of riverine woodland, just minutes from one of the world-famous wildebeest crossing sites.

Though you can watch passing wildlife from the comfort of your airy canvas tent, early morning and late afternoon game drives will allow you to explore further afield in search of lion, cheetah, rhino, elephant, giraffe and buffalo. Or, you can take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a wonderful birds-eye-view over the grasslands.

Stay: Three nights at Naibor Camp

Today you fly to Uganda for an unforgettable wildlife experience – tracking gorillas in the evocatively-named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You’ll be driven to your comfortable lodge on the edge of the national park, within easy reach of the trail where you’ll begin your gorilla trekking excursions.

Bwindi’s ancient forest is one of the last remaining refuges of these magnificent creatures. Walking up steep, densely forested hills, you’ll be able to observe these rare primates at a close distance in the company of expert guides and rangers. Though gorillas are the main draw, you’ll also have guided forest walks and wonderful birdwatching expeditions to enjoy, whilst visits to the local community provide a glimpse into traditional life.

Stay: Three nights at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Today you will return to the airport for your flight home.