Wildlife And Waves

If you’re coming on safari, why not spend your first night in Kenya on safari ? The Emakoko, an intimate lodge on the edge of Nairobi National Park, makes this a no-brainer. Your driver-guide will meet your flight at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and whisk you through the city to the park, where you can enjoy your first game drive mere hours after landing. The park has four of the Big 5 so look out for lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. Why we love The Emakoko: Superb boutique lodge on the border of Nairobi National Park Convenient funicular to take you up to clifftop suites A true safari feeling a stone’s throw from Nairobi Perfect as an overnight stop with access to airports

After breakfast and your first evening of getting attuned to the night sounds of Kenya, you’re taken to Wilson Airport, the regional hub, for your light aircraft flight to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Lewa is home to significant populations of highly endangered black and white rhino, rare Grevy’s zebra and other species like Verreaux’s eagle owl. Your home for three nights is Sirikoi, the perfect base from which to go horse riding, take scenic helicopter flips and visit Ngare Ndare Forest. Why we love Sirikoi: In one of Kenya’s most successful conservation areas Tents, cottages and a family house to choose from Surrounded by expansive lawns dotted with acacia trees Organic kitchen garden growing 80 species

Today you change scene and fly to Keekerok or Cottar’s private airstrip for the next leg of your journey. The Masai Mara awaits… If you’re visiting between July and about November, then huge herds of wildebeest will be present, making for wonderful sightings. Your bed will also be waiting at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, an easy-going mix of classic safari style and modern convenience. Being in a conservancy with access to the national reserve gives you unending options for game watching. Why we love Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp: A long history of safari, dating to 1919 Old-fashioned bush baths in traditional tubs Learn survival skills from Maasai guides Night drives in search of shy nocturnal animals

It’s been an enthralling adventure so far but one with early morning wake-up calls and late nights around the campfire. For your final five nights, you can make up for any lost sleep with time at Diani Beach, where the alarm clock can be firmly switched off. The Alfajiri Villas let you do as much or little as you like. Catch a ride on the ngalawa to the reef for snorkelling or simply sunbathe with a good book and iced drink. Why we love Alfajiri Villas: Highly private collection of beach villas Three configurations to choose from Each has a large swimming pool Daily massages and trips to the reef

After being pampered with daily massages, your own pool to swim in, delicious meals, kite surfing, shopping, diving and toasting Kenya’s fluffy pink sunsets, it’s time to begin your journey home. Today your driver will take you back to the airport for the short flight back to Nairobi, where your memorable bush-and-beach vacation began. From the secret gems of Lewa and the rolling plains of the Mara to the balmy breezes of Diani, this is a holiday to remember.