Mara Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Maasai Mara National Reserve Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
10 days kenya and tanzania safari
Day 1: Niarobi - Maasi mara
Day 2: Maasai Mara full day
Day 3: Maasai mara -lake Nakuru
Day 4: Lake Nakuru -Amboseli
Day 5: Amboseli full day
Day 6: Amboseli- Arusha
Day 7: Arusha - Serengeti
Day 8: Serengeti -Ngorongoro
Day 9: Ngorongoro -Arusha
Day 10: Arusha - Nairobi
I went to Maasai Mara during the migration and I’m certain that I will never forget the experience! I stayed in a luxury tented camp on the reservation and the animals that I saw the entire not not just during game drives were incredible! I saw all the big 5 animals and everything I mentioned my guide was able to locate. If you have the opportunity I would suggest visiting.
#deliciousfood
#happynewyear
deliciousfood
happynewyear
Why is it said that Kenya is suitable for travel all year round?
Indeed, from June to October each year, the Maasai Mara National Reserve witnesses the world-famous Great Migration, the largest animal migration on Earth: the wildebeest migration. Millions of wildebeests gather, accompanied by zebras and antelopes, with predators following closely behind. The thrilling scene is worthy of the saying 'a must-visit in one's lifetime'. Therefore, everyone thinks of setting off in the summer at the first opportunity. If you have a generous budget and just happen to have paid leave, Kenya's golden migration season welcomes you. However, don't assume that you can witness the spectacular wildebeest river crossing just by being there during these months; it also requires a lot of patience and luck. Additionally, here are a few highlighted tips, let's take a look:
⚠❌It's not true that there are no animals to see outside of the migration season. How could that be! In terms of numbers, the Kenyan savannah is home to countless animals, and only a small part of them participate in the Great Migration. In terms of species, besides the wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes that take part in the migration, there are many other types of animals living in the Maasai Mara, which is their lifelong home. Therefore, a considerable number of wild animals can be seen in Kenya throughout the year.
⚠❌You don't have to choose the migration season to see lions hunting. That's a bit biased! Lions and cheetahs wish they could eat every day, and hunting happens all the time.
⚠❌Don't go during the rainy season. That's a deep misunderstanding! Kenya doesn't have four seasons, only a dry season and a rainy season, with the long rains from March to May and the short rains in November and December. However, the rainy season doesn't mean continuous rain every day like the monsoon season; rainfall mainly occurs at night or in the early morning, meaning it's still possible to have sunny days. Therefore, Kenya's rainy season is not as unfriendly as imagined. On the contrary, it is a favorite time for many internationally renowned photographers.
The truth is indeed hard to hear, but it is the real situation of tourism in Africa!
The truth is indeed hard to hear😥, but it is the real situation of tourism in Africa..
Let's talk about the big truth of the current situation of tourism in Africa📝
Although it's hard to hear, this is the situation, and I hope it will be of some practical help to those who want to come to Africa❗❗❗
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1. Safari is dusty, prepare a dirty clothes bag in advance to separate from clean clothing🧳
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2. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance🏠!!! To avoid the situation where the hotel you want to stay in is fully booked
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3. Be sure to choose a lodge or camp inside the park⛺, to experience the most beautiful moments of the park in the morning and evening. Staying outside the park means being far from the national park, spending more time on the road, and the animals are more active in the morning and evening
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4. After a day of Safari, you'll be covered in dust😷, remember to prepare disposable bath towels according to the number of days of your trip
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5. Due to animals frequently dying from ingesting plastic bags🛍, the use of plastic bags has been restricted in Kenya since 2017
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6. If you have plastic bags, meat, fruits🍏, etc., after unpacking, you will be taken to a small room to pay a fine
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7. Wear holey shoes/sandals, often need to stand on chairs to see animals, and they are also convenient for walking
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8. Bring medicine for stomach and treatment for diarrhea💊, the dust on Safari is heavy, it's best to bring a mask, and if you have rhinitis, bring something for cleaning
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9. Kenya safari requires a Yellow Book📔, you need to go to the International Travel Health Care Center for vaccination, it is recommended to go 1-2 months in advance during the peak season, otherwise, if the reservation is too late, you may have to go to the neighboring city to get the shot💉
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10. The 'Great Migration' of animals is so famous that everyone thinks that outside of June to September, the animals🐘 in Kenya have all gone! In fact, Kenya has dozens of national parks🏕 and reserves, such as Amboseli, Nakuru, Samburu, etc., where the number of animals is basically constant and does not migrate, and you can see them at any time
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🔵8-day Mini Panoramic Route📈🔵
🌈Recommended itinerary
🌱Day 1 Amboseli
🌱Day 2 Amboseli
🌱Day 3 Naivasha
🌱Day 4 Masai Mara
🌱Day 5 Masai Mara
🌱Day 6 Masai Mara/Nakuru
🌱Day 7 Nairobi/Mount Kenya
🌱Day 8 Return
🫂Recommended number of people: 4, 6
Masai Mara National Reserve
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Mara River Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Brave people, go see the world first!
【Kenya's Main Safari Attractions】
Amboseli National Park: Look up at Africa's tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, with its perennial snow-capped summit also being a major attraction
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【Masai Mara National Park】
The world's largest wildlife sanctuary, follow the off-road vehicle Safari to find the traces of Africa's Big Five (lion/buffalo/cheetah/elephant/rhino).
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【Lake Naivasha】
Kenya's most beautiful freshwater lake, also the highest lake in the East African Rift, specially arranged boat tours of the lake allow for close observation of the hippo family.
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Selected Flight Route:
CZ6043 CSX NBO 0050 0730 (Flight time: 11 hours 40 minutes)
CZ6044 NOB CSX 1500 0800+1 (Flight time: 12 hours)
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Recommended Itinerary:
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Day1: From all over the country--Changsha--Nairobi
Gather at Huanghua International Airport, take the Southern Airlines international flight the next early morning, flying to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
Hotel: On the plane
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Day2: Nairobi--Amboseli
Drive to Amboseli on the border of Kenya (about 4 hours by car)
Hotel: AMBOSELI AA LODGE Local four-star or equivalent
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Day3: Amboseli--Nairobi
Drive back to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, with free activities in the afternoon.
Hotel: Eastland Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day4: Nairobi--Masai Mara
Drive to the wildlife sanctuary--Masai Mara, passing through the scar of the earth--the East African Rift.
Hotel: MARA CHUI LODGE Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day5: Masai Mara National Reserve (Mara River)
Spend the whole day in the park tracking animals (depart at 8 am, arrive at the hotel at 3 pm)
Hotel: MARA CHUI LODGE Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day6: Masai Mara--Lake Naivasha--Lake Elementaita (About 4.5 hours by car)
Drive to Naivasha (about 4.5 hours by car), arrange a boat tour of Lake Naivasha. Stay in the Lake Elementaita area, with a distant view of Lake Elementaita.
Hotel: Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day7: Lake Elementaita--Aberdare (About 4 hours by car)
Drive to near the equator--Aberdare, visit the tea homeland.
Hotel: Country Club Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day8: Aberdare--Nairobi (About 4 hours by car)
City tour: Drive past the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Freedom Square, the Cathedral, etc.
Hotel: Eastland Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day9: Nairobi--Changsha
Sleep in, go to the airport at the scheduled time - fly to Changsha.
Hotel: On the plane
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Day10: Changsha--All over the country
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Essential Items:
Sunscreen, sun protection clothing, face mask, hat, windbreaker, slippers, toothbrush and toothpaste, hydrating skincare products and face masks, lip balm, disposable bath towels, socks, underwear, adapter, wet wipes, medicine, snacks, cash (USD), camera,
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Outfit Suggestions:
In addition to the regular Safari attire in earthy and army green colors, the 'Old Qian' style is also suitable, and the wasteland series is also OK
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Enjoying the Wildebeest Crossing in Masai Mara | Divine Experience and Tips
I posted a note the day before yesterday, sharing my divine experience of witnessing the 'decade's largest' wildebeest crossing in Masai Mara a few days ago. Such a scene is rare, but I have summarized some tips based on my experience and the information from the guide, which you are welcome to refer to if needed.
❗️This is just a personal experience sharing, not guaranteed to be 100% correct, and sometimes you may need a bit of luck in addition to experience.
🟤Hotel:
This time we stayed at a hotel called Entim Masai Mara, right next to the Mara River, a very niche Boutique Camp with only 15 tents. The hotel faces a crossing point, but it's relatively non-mainstream, and there has never been such a spectacular crossing scene before (there was no large-scale crossing in the days after we left), this time was a real luck.
However, this crossing point is the hotel's private territory, ordinary people cannot enter, only guests can have such an experience. I estimate that after this time, Entim will be hard to book, and you need to book a long time in advance.
If you are staying at other hotels, I strongly recommend staying in the park! Because it takes an hour and a half to drive from the entrance of Masai Mara, if you stay outside the park, you will waste 3 hours on the road every day, which is not cost-effective.
🟤Crossing Point:
In addition to the niche crossing point in our hotel, most people go to a few large main crossing points, where the probability of seeing the crossing is also higher. But whether you can see the wildebeest crossing, where to see it, and what the scale is, no one can guarantee.
🟤Season:
Normally, the wildebeest migration takes place every year in July and August, with the highest probability in mid-August. This year's migration was delayed due to drought, and it wasn't until the recent rains that they were brought over. It was still raining in Mara a few days ago, so there is still a good chance of seeing the wildebeest crossing in the next two weeks, and it's not impossible during the National Day holiday.
🟤Time:
Wildebeest usually choose to cross the river when the water is warmer, which is in the mid to late afternoon. However, we saw it at sunrise for two consecutive days, so no one can be sure about this. I would suggest leaving early, we left at five thirty on the first day and saw the crossing at six, animals are always more active in the early morning.
🟤Patience:
To see exciting scenes on a game drive in Mara, you often need to wait, sometimes for several hours or even half a day, so patience is important. If the guide suggests waiting, then it's worth waiting a bit longer, it's part of the game (provided the guide is excellent and responsible).
🟤About the River Crossing:
Wildebeest crossing ≠ River crossing. The latter must be in the Mara River, and the difficulty is higher, it needs to meet many harsh conditions, such as dust, crocodile predation, migration, rapid water flow... Recently because it often rains, the ground is wet, it is difficult to meet the condition of dust, no matter how large the scale is, it is just a wildebeest crossing, not the 'River Crossing' level.
A supreme experience in Masai Mara | Watching antelopes crossing the river while having breakfast
I dare say this is a unique experience on the whole network.
Here's the thing. Masai Mara, due to the severe drought this year, has no fresh grass, so the classic scene of antelopes crossing the river in August has not appeared, and the antelope army has not been able to migrate from Tanzania, so all the tourists who came in the peak season have not seen the great migration.
In early September, Mara finally had a few light rains, and new grass slowly grew a bit. The day we arrived, it was raining heavily, and the guide said everyone was waiting for this rain, and perhaps our Mara trip could have a surprise.
The camp we stayed in Masai Mara is very niche, with only 15 tents, occupying a prime location by the Mara River. Early the next morning at five o'clock, we were going to watch the sunrise, but the driver received news of antelopes crossing the river in front of the hotel, so we rushed back.
Then, wow, the scene from the documentary appeared, with thousands of antelopes crossing the river in groups from the river bay in front of the hotel, and many more were gathering on the opposite bank, with the buzzing and mooing sounds all around.
What's more exaggerated is that it's right in front of our tent, it's a 360-degree unobstructed view of the river crossing. And because this location is the hotel's private territory, cars from outside can't come in and don't know the location, so only the hotel guests' 3 cars watched this spectacular scene for an hour.
I thought we were lucky enough, but the next morning when we were having breakfast at the hotel, more antelopes appeared, on a larger scale than the day before. All the hotel guests went out for the game, and only the three of us were incredibly excited to have such a view.
The funniest thing is, when we were fully immersed in this miracle, we suddenly turned our heads and found that all the hotel staff were standing behind watching, even the chef came out with his phone to take pictures😂 According to our waiter, he has been working here for five years, and this is the largest scale. Our driver also said that this is the highest density and duration of river crossing he has seen since 2012, which can be called the best in ten years.
When the river crossing was almost over, a few photographers came over, their faces not looking very good, because they couldn't take good photos from their nearby positions. He looked at my unfinished Benedict Egg and couldn't help but laugh and cry, saying 'This is truly luxurious.'
Indeed, the real luxury is such unpredictable and untraceable moments of serendipity, there's no regret when it's not there, but if you're lucky enough to have it, enjoy this moment to the fullest.
In September, you can still see the move of the century - the crossing of the Mara River!
The annual migration of the Masai Mara River at the junction of Kenya and Tanzania, you know how lucky!
Kenya, which arrived on September 10th, thought that this time there was no animal migration, because the general migration of animals was concentrated in July and August, and a car friend was waiting here on the Masai Mara River. I didnt see it for a week. I didnt expect that we only went to one day and could actually see it.
I was originally planning to drive Kenya by myself, but considering that because I am watching wild animals, I dont know where there are wild animals in the unfamiliar people. It is easy to miss a lot of wonderful things, and finally I chose a chartered car. In terms of the results, this decision is too correct, because the locals will have a walkie-talkie communication. Once the animals are found, they will tell other drivers at any time, everyone will come quickly, so this is why we can see so many animals. , Africa's five hegemons, wildebeest migration, lion hunting, I saw everything I wanted to see.
So, if you come to Kenya, Tanzania, Africa to travel to see animals, it is recommended to charter a car, but if you go to North Africa, it is very suitable for self-driving, the road conditions can still be
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Mahali Mzuri Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
In Kenya> Luxury camp + all-inclusive + plane shuttle
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🦒“Mahali Mzuri” was rated as the world's number one hotel in the Global Travel Awards. Mahali Mzuri means “beautiful place” in Swahili. This camp is one of the selected hotels under the Virgin Group, and the camp owner is Richard Branson, who flew to space earlier than Bezos and Musk.
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🦒This top-notch luxury camp located on the northern edge of the Masai Mara, in the Olare Motorogi Private Wildlife Reserve, is indeed “as its name suggests”: whether it’s a tent that combines Kenyan style and modern facilities, or the lions, giraffes, elephants and other wildlife at your doorstep, or a mesmerizing sunset drink, will all become beautiful memories of your trip to Kenya.
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🦒Olare Motorogi Private Wildlife Reserve is currently the reserve with the most lions in Kenya, and it is also a must-pass place for the migration (Loita Migration) every February and March. Don't look at its scale not as famous as the Great Migration of Wildebeest, the Loita Migration occurs during the calving period of the wildebeest, the strong pulse of new life and the interception of carnivores, which gives this migration a different drama, attracting the attention of many senior migration guests.
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⛺Itinerary Overview
Day1-2 Landing, exploring Amboseli Park, the paradise of elephants, off-road hunting and taking photos with elephants, shooting big African films
Accommodation: Corn Camp Elewana Torilis Camp
Day 3-6 Off-road hunting, Masai Mara National Reserve, follow the guide to explore the animal world deeply, understand a different Africa
Accommodation: Mahali Mzuri, a beautiful place
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🛖All inclusive
All camp tent all-inclusive accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and some drinks
All inter-camp small plane shuttle service & two daily routine camp activities
All reserve entrance fees & camp nearby airport to camp shuttle service
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The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
One of the best things about living in Cape Town is the opportunity to explore the depths of Africa. Even after working here for many years, I still seize the chance to engage in outdoor activities. From South Africa to Kenya and other regions, there is nothing more fascinating than experiencing exotic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Although completely worth it, planning a safari in Africa is a daunting task.
Where is the best place to go? When is the golden time to watch animals? What should I pack for the wildlife park? You've been asking me a lot of questions about the wildlife park, and I'm ready to cover all of them!
Are you ready for some wild adventure? This is your ultimate guide to exploring the African wildlife park.
The best time to visit the wildlife park.
Imagine if the United States, China, India, and most of Europe were combined to form a massive landmass. This incredible supercontinent would give you an idea of just how big Africa is! In fact, Africa is four times larger than the continental United States.
Of course, if someone asks for the best time to visit the United States, it will depend on countless factors. The same goes for Africa. This diverse continent has snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, lush grasslands, and dense forests.
You can get completely different experiences at different times of the year.
The greatness of Africa's vast expanse lies in the fact that you can visit at any time of the year. Check out my post on the best times to visit wildlife parks in Africa for a complete month-by-month guide to help you determine when to go.
What to pack for the wildlife park
Usually, in terms of packaging, less is more. After all, you can almost always go to your local shopping center and buy anything you need. However, when you're at a wildlife park, it's a completely different story.
The most important thing is that you will not have local convenience facilities.
When you go to a wildlife park, you are completely exposed to the elements and everything you need for the day is crucial. Most importantly, luggage space is often strictly limited (if you are taking a short jungle flight to get to your destination), so you need to have a high level of strategic planning.
Before you depart, please check my breakdown of what to pack for each type of wildlife park so that you look and feel great every second.
How to find the hunting cabin
Finding the right wildlife park cabin is crucial to the success of your trip! Unlike hotels where you can come and go as you please, wildlife park cabins are often where you'll spend most of your time.
In most cases, they also provide the game driver itself.
It is entirely possible to come all the way to Africa and interact only with your cabin, for better or for worse. Lodges often come with vast spaces and many amenities. Do diligent research before committing.
The first step in finding suitable accommodation for a wildlife park is to choose your wildlife park experience. From small tents to luxury cabins, every type of traveler can find something that suits them.
One of your early steps is to decide what kind of zoo visitor you are.
When you know what experience you are pursuing, please carefully review these key contents to look for in the cabins of the wildlife park.
Last but not least, consider the experience from the perspective of the animals. A wildlife park is about safely entering the animals' habitat without disrupting anything. Before you decide on a wildlife park company, look for key tips on how to ethically encounter animals. Sadly, too many companies focus on profit rather than animal welfare.
Careful planning leads to non-cruel adventures.
Gonwana Game Reserve
Read more!
Places I have lived
I am very lucky to have experienced some of the best safari lodges in Africa. When you are looking for inspiration, here is an overview of the country's most unforgettable places for me.
South Africa
Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park: Not your typical wildlife park experience, the vintage charm of Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park will take you back in time.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses: I stayed at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses for a magical luxury camping experience! What could be better than spending the night under the stars with lions, tigers, and bears? Disclaimer: No bears.
Royal Malewane: Kruger National Park is widely regarded as South Africa's premier wildlife destination, and staying at Royal Malewane will take you to the heart of it all.
Gonwana Game Reserve: During my stay at the Gonwana Wildlife Conservation Area in South Africa, I visited an African wildlife park for the first time, and this place will always hold a special place in my heart.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Kenya
Campsite of the Cotswolds in the 1920s: This family-owned place is iconic in Kenya. Spending the night at the Cotswolds' 1920s wildlife campsite is a great way to disconnect from the world and see what Africa used to be like.
Maasai Mara National Park's luxurious destination owned by the famous Richard Branson, staying at Mahali Mzuri is an epic adventure that won't disappoint.
Giraffe Manor: This retro and chic hotel is easily one of the most Instagram-friendly hotels in Africa, and in fact, giraffes may eat from your hands.
Namibia
Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp: When it comes to Namibia, everything is related to Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp. They offer fully customizable accommodations so you can create your own wildlife park.
Botswana
Botswana's Black Mongoose Alley: Reconnect with nature in the sky beds of Khwai Private Reserve and the luxury tents of Black Mongoose Alley.
Meno a Kwena: Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The simple and rustic Meno a Kwena campsite is a comfortable place for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
What is the budget for the wildlife park?
Wildlife parks are not cheap, and you usually get what you pay for. Before you enter the sticker shock, remember that wildlife park lodges are usually all-inclusive - so that typically includes food, lodging, alcohol, and guided drives. The only extra cost is your flight.
When you start thinking about travel details, please read my guide to learn about budgeting for African wildlife parks.
Mara Chui Eco-Resort Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Brave people, go see the world first!
【Kenya's Main Safari Attractions】
Amboseli National Park: Look up at Africa's tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, with its perennial snow-capped summit also being a major attraction
-
【Masai Mara National Park】
The world's largest wildlife sanctuary, follow the off-road vehicle Safari to find the traces of Africa's Big Five (lion/buffalo/cheetah/elephant/rhino).
-
【Lake Naivasha】
Kenya's most beautiful freshwater lake, also the highest lake in the East African Rift, specially arranged boat tours of the lake allow for close observation of the hippo family.
-
Selected Flight Route:
CZ6043 CSX NBO 0050 0730 (Flight time: 11 hours 40 minutes)
CZ6044 NOB CSX 1500 0800+1 (Flight time: 12 hours)
-
Recommended Itinerary:
-
Day1: From all over the country--Changsha--Nairobi
Gather at Huanghua International Airport, take the Southern Airlines international flight the next early morning, flying to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
Hotel: On the plane
-
Day2: Nairobi--Amboseli
Drive to Amboseli on the border of Kenya (about 4 hours by car)
Hotel: AMBOSELI AA LODGE Local four-star or equivalent
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Day3: Amboseli--Nairobi
Drive back to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, with free activities in the afternoon.
Hotel: Eastland Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day4: Nairobi--Masai Mara
Drive to the wildlife sanctuary--Masai Mara, passing through the scar of the earth--the East African Rift.
Hotel: MARA CHUI LODGE Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day5: Masai Mara National Reserve (Mara River)
Spend the whole day in the park tracking animals (depart at 8 am, arrive at the hotel at 3 pm)
Hotel: MARA CHUI LODGE Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day6: Masai Mara--Lake Naivasha--Lake Elementaita (About 4.5 hours by car)
Drive to Naivasha (about 4.5 hours by car), arrange a boat tour of Lake Naivasha. Stay in the Lake Elementaita area, with a distant view of Lake Elementaita.
Hotel: Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day7: Lake Elementaita--Aberdare (About 4 hours by car)
Drive to near the equator--Aberdare, visit the tea homeland.
Hotel: Country Club Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day8: Aberdare--Nairobi (About 4 hours by car)
City tour: Drive past the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Freedom Square, the Cathedral, etc.
Hotel: Eastland Hotel Four-star hotel or equivalent
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Day9: Nairobi--Changsha
Sleep in, go to the airport at the scheduled time - fly to Changsha.
Hotel: On the plane
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Day10: Changsha--All over the country
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Essential Items:
Sunscreen, sun protection clothing, face mask, hat, windbreaker, slippers, toothbrush and toothpaste, hydrating skincare products and face masks, lip balm, disposable bath towels, socks, underwear, adapter, wet wipes, medicine, snacks, cash (USD), camera,
-
Outfit Suggestions:
In addition to the regular Safari attire in earthy and army green colors, the 'Old Qian' style is also suitable, and the wasteland series is also OK
-
7 Days Magical Kenya Experience
Day by Day
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu
You will be picked up from the airport or your Nairobi Hotel by a designated Nala Tours and Travel driver/guide. Depart from Nairobi in the morning and drive to Samburu National Reserve (approximately 5-6 hours). Arrive at Samburu and check in at your chosen accommodation. Afternoon game drive in Samburu to encounter unique wildlife species. Dinner and overnight stay at Samburu.
Day 2: Full Day in Samburu
Embark on a full day of game drives in Samburu. Explore the reserve's distinct landscapes and witness the special "Samburu Five" – unique wildlife species to this region. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve. Return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.
Day 3: Samburu to Lake Naivasha
Depart from Samburu after breakfast and drive to Lake Naivasha (approximately 5-6 hours). Arrive at Lake Naivasha and check in at your chosen accommodation. Afternoon boat safari on Lake Naivasha to enjoy the scenery and birdlife. Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Naivasha.
Day 4: Crescent Island Excursion
Morning visit to Crescent Island for a guided walking safari. Explore the island on foot, encountering wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional afternoon activities, such as a visit to Hell's Gate National Park or a cycling safari. Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Naivasha.
Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara
Depart from Lake Naivasha after breakfast and drive to Masai Mara (approximately 4-5 hours). Arrive at your chosen lodge or camp in time for lunch. Afternoon game drive in Masai Mara to witness the abundant wildlife. Dinner and overnight stay at Masai Mara.
Day 6: Full Day Game Drives in Masai Mara
Embark on a full day of game drives in Masai Mara. Capture the sunrise during an early morning drive and enjoy a packed lunch in the reserve. Explore different regions, including key points like the Mara River known for wildlife crossings. Return to the lodge or camp in the late afternoon for relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay at Masai Mara.
Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi
Set out for an early morning game drive to spot animals when they are most active. Return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out. Depart from Masai Mara and drive back to Nairobi. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon, concluding your memorable 7-day safari covering Samburu, Lake Naivasha, and Masai Mara.
#falltrip#mytravelhacks#freehotelstay#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods
Royal Malewane Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
One of the best things about living in Cape Town is the opportunity to explore the depths of Africa. Even after working here for many years, I still seize the chance to engage in outdoor activities. From South Africa to Kenya and other regions, there is nothing more fascinating than experiencing exotic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Although completely worth it, planning a safari in Africa is a daunting task.
Where is the best place to go? When is the golden time to watch animals? What should I pack for the wildlife park? You've been asking me a lot of questions about the wildlife park, and I'm ready to cover all of them!
Are you ready for some wild adventure? This is your ultimate guide to exploring the African wildlife park.
The best time to visit the wildlife park.
Imagine if the United States, China, India, and most of Europe were combined to form a massive landmass. This incredible supercontinent would give you an idea of just how big Africa is! In fact, Africa is four times larger than the continental United States.
Of course, if someone asks for the best time to visit the United States, it will depend on countless factors. The same goes for Africa. This diverse continent has snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, lush grasslands, and dense forests.
You can get completely different experiences at different times of the year.
The greatness of Africa's vast expanse lies in the fact that you can visit at any time of the year. Check out my post on the best times to visit wildlife parks in Africa for a complete month-by-month guide to help you determine when to go.
What to pack for the wildlife park
Usually, in terms of packaging, less is more. After all, you can almost always go to your local shopping center and buy anything you need. However, when you're at a wildlife park, it's a completely different story.
The most important thing is that you will not have local convenience facilities.
When you go to a wildlife park, you are completely exposed to the elements and everything you need for the day is crucial. Most importantly, luggage space is often strictly limited (if you are taking a short jungle flight to get to your destination), so you need to have a high level of strategic planning.
Before you depart, please check my breakdown of what to pack for each type of wildlife park so that you look and feel great every second.
How to find the hunting cabin
Finding the right wildlife park cabin is crucial to the success of your trip! Unlike hotels where you can come and go as you please, wildlife park cabins are often where you'll spend most of your time.
In most cases, they also provide the game driver itself.
It is entirely possible to come all the way to Africa and interact only with your cabin, for better or for worse. Lodges often come with vast spaces and many amenities. Do diligent research before committing.
The first step in finding suitable accommodation for a wildlife park is to choose your wildlife park experience. From small tents to luxury cabins, every type of traveler can find something that suits them.
One of your early steps is to decide what kind of zoo visitor you are.
When you know what experience you are pursuing, please carefully review these key contents to look for in the cabins of the wildlife park.
Last but not least, consider the experience from the perspective of the animals. A wildlife park is about safely entering the animals' habitat without disrupting anything. Before you decide on a wildlife park company, look for key tips on how to ethically encounter animals. Sadly, too many companies focus on profit rather than animal welfare.
Careful planning leads to non-cruel adventures.
Gonwana Game Reserve
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Places I have lived
I am very lucky to have experienced some of the best safari lodges in Africa. When you are looking for inspiration, here is an overview of the country's most unforgettable places for me.
South Africa
Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park: Not your typical wildlife park experience, the vintage charm of Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park will take you back in time.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses: I stayed at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses for a magical luxury camping experience! What could be better than spending the night under the stars with lions, tigers, and bears? Disclaimer: No bears.
Royal Malewane: Kruger National Park is widely regarded as South Africa's premier wildlife destination, and staying at Royal Malewane will take you to the heart of it all.
Gonwana Game Reserve: During my stay at the Gonwana Wildlife Conservation Area in South Africa, I visited an African wildlife park for the first time, and this place will always hold a special place in my heart.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Kenya
Campsite of the Cotswolds in the 1920s: This family-owned place is iconic in Kenya. Spending the night at the Cotswolds' 1920s wildlife campsite is a great way to disconnect from the world and see what Africa used to be like.
Maasai Mara National Park's luxurious destination owned by the famous Richard Branson, staying at Mahali Mzuri is an epic adventure that won't disappoint.
Giraffe Manor: This retro and chic hotel is easily one of the most Instagram-friendly hotels in Africa, and in fact, giraffes may eat from your hands.
Namibia
Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp: When it comes to Namibia, everything is related to Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp. They offer fully customizable accommodations so you can create your own wildlife park.
Botswana
Botswana's Black Mongoose Alley: Reconnect with nature in the sky beds of Khwai Private Reserve and the luxury tents of Black Mongoose Alley.
Meno a Kwena: Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The simple and rustic Meno a Kwena campsite is a comfortable place for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
What is the budget for the wildlife park?
Wildlife parks are not cheap, and you usually get what you pay for. Before you enter the sticker shock, remember that wildlife park lodges are usually all-inclusive - so that typically includes food, lodging, alcohol, and guided drives. The only extra cost is your flight.
When you start thinking about travel details, please read my guide to learn about budgeting for African wildlife parks.
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