Make a Dash for Kenya
By Lisa Loverro
The earth begins to tremble with the percussion of stampeding hooves, the noise rising to a crescendo of throaty grunts as the herd approaches, all snout and sinew, in a word: spectacular. This is no Discovery channel show; it’s the real deal. The Great Migration of wildebeest from their calving grounds in the Serengeti to their feeding grounds in the Masai Mara is one of the last great shows on Earth.
Kenya’s appeal in easy to understand. Beneath its snowcapped mountains lie the vast plains and beautiful lakes that support its exotic wildlife and set the stage for the epic migration. Kenya’s temperate year-round climate is a blessing to travelers and travel planners, though the best months for game watching are the dry seasons that last from January – February and July – August.
Kenya takes its tourism quite seriously and it shows in the tremendous growth the industry has seen in spite of the recession. Amy Heacock, marketing director for the Kenya Tourist Board states, “We have seen an increase in overall air and sea arrivals to Kenya from the U.S. market. In comparison to 2008–09 we’ve seen double digit increases. 2007 was a banner year for North American visitation to Kenya, and when comparing 2007 figures to 2008, we experienced double-digit decreases. When comparing 2009 to 2007 figures, we show a single digit increase. We are on track, and it is our goal to exceed 2007 figures in 2010 and future years.” When asked what makes Kenya the ultimate safari destination she added, “No other country on earth can offer the visitor as much to see and do as Kenya within the borders of a single country. Kenya is the ancestral home to more than 40 distinct tribal groups. Culture, wildlife, and dramatic scenery rightfully make Kenya the top safari destination.”
To understand this vast country and how to best serve visitors looking to experience all Kenya has to offer, I turned to the experts at the Safari and Conservation Company (www.thesafariandconservationcompany.com), a reservation company founded by two of Kenya’s oldest family settlers, the Roberts and Dyer Families, who offer some of the most outstanding experiences that Kenya and East Africa have to offer. Three generations of these families have lived in Kenya and today they have adapted their existence around a more responsible attitude to tourism. According to Juliet Agg-Manning of the Safari and Conservation Company, a typical length of stay for first-timers would be around 10 days. “I would recommend two or three safari destinations and the option of the beach,” she added.
Call of the Wild
Of course, the Masai Mara National Reserve would be the natural place to send clients, especially during migration period, which changes somewhat from year-to-year. To stay on top of migration predictions, as well as activities and options around the area, visit Safari 365 (www.safari365.com). One of the more high-end camps, Governors’ Camp (www.governorscamp.com) is a cluster of exclusive tented camps in one of the Mara’s best regions for game viewing. All camps within this group are top-notch. From their cuisine to the level of service and guides, these will not disappoint your more discerning clients.
Embarking on a balloon safari in the Masai Mara is an experience not easily forgotten. The hot-air balloon sets off in the early morning to catch views of the sun between the mountains and ends with a champagne breakfast. Alternately, Agg-Manning suggests beginning farther north at Borana (www.borana.com) in the Laikipia region, where guests can not only experience the thrill of safari but also witness a working cattle ranch with a strong commitment to conservation and the local community. For another unique experience, Tropic Air’s small aircraft and helicopters (www.tropicairkenya.com) are a great way to see the savannah.
Outside of the world-renowned Masai, there are other options to be had. Agg-Manning suggests exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Samburu people (cousins of the Masai) at Lemarti’s Camp (www.lemartiscamp.com). She states that, “Lemarti and Anna have created their dream home, with just five tents for guests, and their friends from the community help run the camp. The experience here is all about the Samburu: fantastic cultural interaction, walking on community land, understanding a way of life so entirely removed from that of North America that a small dose of culture shock can be expected.” Wherever you decide to start your client’s trip, there are some very reasonable packages out there. Moira Smith, general manager of Goway Travel (www.goway.com) for Africa and the Middle East, suggests their best-selling, 8-day Classic Kenya package from $1,985. “It visits the major parks and reserves in Kenya including Samburu, Mount Kenya National Park, Lake Nakuru and of course the iconic Masai Mara.” For the adventurist who just can’t get enough climbing, Eyes On Africa Safaris (eyesonafricasafaris.com) offers a 6-day trek up Mount Kenya for a land price of $1,325. Although, Mount Kenya can be climbed year-round, it’s safest during the dry seasons when the weather is most predictable.
The Great Lakes of Kenya straddle the center of the Great Rift Valley. From north to south, the valley is lined with a series of freshwater and soda based volcanic lakes and should be high on the list to include when planning an itinerary. A photographer’s heaven, the lakes are home to exotic birds and wildlife like the huge flocks of flamingos at Lake Nakuru National Park. With spectacular views of this pink-bordered lake, the Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge (www.sarovahotels.com) on Lake Nakuru is just a short two-hour drive from Nairobi.
City Scapes
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city is an eclectic mix of traditional culture with modern influences. The usual suspects like Hilton (www1.hilton.com), InterContinental (www.ichotelsgroup.com), and Holiday Inn (www.holidayinn.com) can be found, along with some trendy and chic boutique options. The Tribe - Village Market Hotel, (www.africanpridehotels.com) ideally situated adjacent to the Village Market shopping complex, exudes the essence of Africa with all the creature comforts and then some, including an on-site gym, Village Market, cinema, bowling alley, mini golf course and child-care facilities. If your client expects New York City cool with outstanding service, the Tribe-Village Market Hotel would be a good bet. Contact reservations@orchidworldwide.com or mention ORCHID upon booking to receive a special perk for your client. The Giraffe Manor Hotel (www.giraffemanor.com), with its all-inclusive meals and resident herd of giraffes, is always a family favorite. Fairmont’s Norfolk Hotel (www.fairmont.com) is another popular spot, mainly because it’s home to the Lord Delaware Bar, undeniably the most fashionable in the city. For day activities in Nairobi, the David Sheldrick Orphanage (www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org) in Nairobi National Park cares for baby elephants that were abandoned or orphaned in the wild, nursing them until they are old enough to join the world to which they belong. The orphanage is also home to some baby rhinos. Lake Naivasha, surrounded by forests of giant acacia trees, is a great place to watch the black and white colobus monkeys play. The lodges on its shores allow day passes for boat rides on the lake or game walks to see some zebras and giraffes at the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary.
Life’s a Beach
A perfect add-on after some time out in the bush is a trip to the white-sand beaches and coral reefs lining Kenya’s coast. Along its shoreline, there is an array of activities including scuba diving and snorkeling. The Kilili Baharini (www.kililibaharini.com) is an interesting find as it is an Italian-run hotel residing on a beautiful white-sand beach, complete with health spa and, of course, the finest Italian cuisine around!
Away from the beach, Fort Jesus and the old town in Mombasa and Shimba Hills National Reserve are easy half-day tours. North of Mombasa are the Gedi Ruins, ancient Swahili ruins dating back to the 8th Century. Mombasa Serena Beach Hotel and Spa on Shanzu Beach overlooking the Mombasa Marine National Park boasts coconut palms and Swahili-style architecture with restaurants ranging from bars, coffee shops and cafes for a somewhat lively nightlife. For information visit www.serenahotels.com
If there are a couple of extra days to squeeze into the itinerary, add a trip to the island of Lamu, specifically Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Having been influenced by many different ethnic groups over the years, from the Portuguese to the Omanis, Lamu is an important center for Islamic and Swahili cultures. Peponi’s on Shela Beach (www.peponi-lamu.com) overlooks the Lamu Channel along the 8-mile stretch of beach. The rooms are individually decorated and fine dining is served in a cozy restaurant. Charming and private, the hotel is perfect for a romantic retreat. Manda Bay, (www.mandabay.com), a boutique hotel on the North Western tip of Manda Island, part of the Lamu archipelago prides itself on “barefoot elegance.” Hosted by Fuzz & Bimbi Dyer, and Andy & Caragh Roberts, the couples are always up for a good time with their guests.
Getting There
Currently there are no non-stop flights between the United States and Nairobi, however Ms. Heacock is hopeful. “There is talk once again of Delta possibly commencing direct flights between Nairobi and Atlanta. Current routing choices from the U.S. tend to favor connecting in Johannesburg, South Africa. European connection routes include London or Amsterdam and it is also possible to connect via a Middle East route such as Qatar or Dubai.” Kenya Airways has 30 international and regional destinations. U.S. citizens need visas to visit Kenya either prior to departure or upon arrival.
For more information contact the Kenya Tourist Board at 866-44-KENYA or visit www.MagicalKenya.com. The Kenya Association of Tour Operators (www.katokenya.org) is also a valuable reference tool for travel planners.
Kenya Airways – The Pride of Africa
Established in 1977, Kenya Airways is among Africa’s leading carriers. It has been voted Best African Airline for many years by African Aviation Magazine. Travel News & Lifestyle Magazine votes Kenya Airways as African Airline of Choice, and Best Regional Airline. In addition, “Flying Blue” was voted the best Frequent Flier program and “Msafiri”, best in-flight magazine. Kenya Airways is focused on their goal to get passengers to the destination of their choice safely, conveniently, comfortably, quickly and cost-effectively. In today’s competitive global market, competition is as strong as ever. There has never been a more challenging period for the aviation sector. Success in these conditions is a clear mark of excellence.
Kenya Airways is an Associate member of Sky Team. With AF & KL/DL it has forged strong partnerships all over the world and especially in the US, Europe and Africa.
Kenya Airways currently flies more than 2.7 million passengers to more than 51 domestic and international cities, including London, Paris and Amsterdam. Today they service the largest Pan-African network on the continent, with 28 countries linked to their regional hub in Nairobi. Beyond that, Kenya Airways’ code share agreement with KLM and its membership in the Sky Team Alliance offers customers access to a global network of flights, which can be booked conveniently while accruing miles and other benefits. Their interline partners, including America Airlines, Continental Airlines, United Airlines, and Air Canada offer smooth and convenient connections from the US & Canada to Kenya.
Kenya Airways’ exclusive check-in and advanced seat allocation system ensures a smooth, stress free journey from the time of booking, and offer both comfort and convenience. Premier World flat bed cabins are configured with 28 seats and have been voted within the top five Business Class seats in the world. Their state of the art beds stretch out to a sleep inducing 180-degree horizontal position, and ensure passengers will arrive at their destination totally refreshed and re-energized. The economy section is also world class with a seat pitch of 32 inches allowing more leg room and seat width than most other carriers. Modern B777s offer new in-flight entertainment systems with 12 video and 18 stereo channels with world-class cuisine to match.
Kenya Airways remains committed to an ongoing investment in their fleet. Operating the youngest fleet in Africa is a reflection of their commitment to ensuring that passengers enjoy the most up-to-date flying experience. They use the latest technological advances with improved operational cost-efficiency and environmental impact considerations.
Offering attractive net fares, group fares, and commissions on many published fares Kenya Airways welcomes the travel agency community who continue to support Kenya Airways in North America. Kenya Airways has four offices in the US- New York, Houston, Los Angeles and Chicago.
For Sales and reservations call;1-866-KENYA-AIR; email- nyc@kenyaair.net or visit www.kenya-airways.us