PRE SAFARI DAY – WEDNESDAY
DEPART NEW YORK CITY (JFK)
You depart from New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport this evening aboard ‘The Pride of Africa’, Kenya Airways, bound for Nairobi Kenya, the gateway to the world of safari.
Spend this evening aloft preparing yourself mentally for a week’s worth of well-deserved digital detoxing in pristine African bushveld where you’ll connect personally with Africa’s mighty Animal Kingdom.
DAY 1 – THURSDAY
ARRIVE NAIROBI
On arrival into Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport this morning, you’re met by a Field
Coordinator of Value Travel and Tours and transferred to your city hotel where accommodation has been arranged for a 1-night stay in rooms with private en-suite bathroom facilities.
While breakfast is included during your stay, you will be responsible for your own dinner this evening.
The remainder of your day is at leisure.
SAROVA PANAFRIC HOTEL
The Sarova Panafric Hotel boasts a rich history.
When the quest for Africa’s independence raged in the 1960’s, the property hosted many of Africa’s nationalists under the umbrella of Pan Africanism, hence the eventual name, Panafric. Over the years, the name has come to signify the finery of cultural creativity.
The suites are a tapestry of rich Neo-African splendor and superior and standard rooms are stylish masterpieces.
The hotel flagship restaurant, ‘The Flame Tree’, offers a wide range of local and international cuisine. It is an intimate, quiet location that is perfect for business lunches, meeting with friends, having a few drinks or simply taking some time out to think and ponder the world.
Today, the Sarova Panafric Hotel represents the best of Neo-Africa: all the comforts of the modern world but with a rich African tradition and style.
OPTIONAL SIGHTSEEING
AFTERNOON GIRAFFE CENTER AND KAREN BLIXEN ESTATE ($90.00 p/p – 4-hours)
Take in the sweeping landscapes and dramatic views that inspired Karen Blixen's famous book ‘Out of Africa’ on this afternoon optional excursion tour from Nairobi. You’ll tour the writers colonial
farmhouse which still retains some of her original items, and see the Ngong Hills off in the distance
before continuing to the Giraffe Center to learn about the highly endangered Rothschild's giraffe. This afternoons’ optional excursion tour includes commentary from a qualified guide and also pickup-drop off from the Sarova Panafric Hotel.
DINNER AT THE WORLD-FAMOUS CARNIVORE RESTAURANT – NAIROBI ($90.00 p/p – 2-hours)
The open-air Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi is one of the city’s most iconic dining destinations. As the name suggests, there, the specialty is meat and in particular, the ‘all-you-can-eat meat buffet’. They serve a wide variety of meat including a selection of ‘exotics’ like ostrich, crocodile and camel, all roasted over charcoal and carved at your table. This evenings’ optional excursion dinner includes a pickup-drop off from the Sarova Panafric Hotel.
DAY 2 – FRIDAY
ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK (B/L/D)
After breakfast this morning, you head north to the Aberdare National Park up in the Aberdare
Mountain Range alongside the Great Rift Valley. Picturesque steep forested ravines and open moorland characterize this national park that provides a habitat for elephants, black rhinos, leopards, spotted hyenas, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, buffaloes, warthogs and bushbucks among others. Lunch is enjoyed at the Aberdare Country Club before setting off for overnight inside the Aberdare National Park.
Time permitting, you’ll stop on the Equator this morning for a demonstration of the Coriolis Effect. This effect tends to deflect moving objects to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere and is important in the formation of cyclonic weather systems.
DISTANCE – Approx. 90 Miles
TIME – Approx. 3 ½-hours
THE ARK
Set in the heart of the Aberdare National Park, The Ark overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, which attracts a host of wildlife. Resembling and named after Noah’s Ark, The Ark comprises of three decks from which numerous balconies and lounges provide a superb location for wildlife viewing. To ensure that you don’t miss any animal sightings, the night guard will buzz your room when special animals come to the waterhole. There are four viewing areas for observing the ever-present animal activity, and even a ground level bunker, a perfect hideout for the discerning photographer.
Accommodation at The Ark comes in the form of cabins, each with a shower and toilet, all of which are located on Decks A and B. Deck C and the main deck are where all the main lodge facilities are located, including the restaurant, restrooms and bar. From the safety and comfort of all four decks, one can watch the wild animals visiting the water hole in front of The Ark.
SAFARI VEHICLE DESCRIPTION
We prefer Minivan Safari Vehicles for our safaris. They’re great for traveling long distances to areas where 4X4 is not necessary. Additionally, while they’re fitted to accommodate nine (9) passengers, we always only allocate a maximum of six (6) passengers per vehicle. This way, everyone automatically gets a window seat and access to the roof hatch which pops up for a 360° panoramic view of the African bushveld and the Animal Kingdom.
DAY 3 – SATURDAY
SHABA NATIONAL RESERVE (B/L/D)
After a hearty breakfast this morning, you continue your journey north toward ‘Born Free’ country
where George and Joy Adamson raised an orphaned lion cub Elsa to adulthood, and released her into the wilderness of Kenya. passing Nanyuki and Meru, you’ll arrive in Shaba National Reserve about 5-hours later and in time for lunch and (weather permitting) a refreshing dip in the lodge swimming pool, overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.
After a brief but welcome ‘siesta’ you set off on a safari game viewing drive to spot the wildlife that calls this semi-desert corner of Africa its home. Perhaps you’ll meet the Samburu, the nomadic tribe which has called this area home for centuries.
DISTANCE – Approx. 170 Miles
TIME – Approx. 5-hours
SAROVA SHABA GAME LODGE
Luxurious Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is set in the Kenyan semi-arid north and boasts 85 modern chalet style rooms with private views of the wildlife-rich banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Each room overlooks the river where the elephants often appear and where crocodiles come out to ‘lounge’.
All chalet style rooms and suites at Sarova Shaba Game Lodge feature private balconies en suite bathrooms, beds with mosquito nets and comforters, overhead fans, and tea/ coffee making facilities.
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge excels in the freshness and quality of its food which is supported by the lodge’s own vegetable and herb garden. All meals are served “al fresco” at the Surpelei Restaurant which is raised on stilts offering breathtaking views of the lush gardens and the Ewaso Nyiro River. The restaurant is fitted with elaborate buffet counters and live cooking stations all set to tempt and please your palate. Sarova Shaba’s chefs are readily available to cater for most special dietary requirements and meal preferences.
Plan Ahead – treat yourself to an aroma therapeutic holistic massage in the raw African bushveld. Not that adventurous? Then reserve the same great massage at the Tulia Spa while ‘listening’ to the trickling natural streams and the sounds of the Animal Kingdom in the distance.
Celebrating something Special on Safari? Be sure and tell us at the time you make your reservation so that we can arrange a private champagne breakfast for you on the sand bank along the river. Imagine experiencing breakfast against the backdrop of the Ewaso Nyiro River and Shaba National Reserve.
DAY 4 – SUNDAY
SHABA NATIONAL RESERVE (B/L/D)
Today, you spend all day on a safari game viewing drive enjoying and African bushveld and the mighty Animal Kingdom. Shaba National Reserve offers sanctuary to large herds of elephants and healthy numbers of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. There is plentiful plains game, reticulated giraffes, rare Beisa oryx, kudus and gerenuks. Geographically, this national reserve boasts breathtaking scenery amidst arid desert terrain.
The stunning wilderness is home to dramatic gorges, open plains and extinct craters.
Your day starts with an early breakfast at the lodge after which, you start off in search of game. You’ll return to the lodge for lunch and a short siesta before taking off once again to explore this majestic region in depth. After an exhilarating day on safari, dinner is served back at the lodge and the remainder of your day is at leisure.
DAY 5 – MONDAY
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK (B/L/D)
Pack up, have breakfast, and check-out.
This morning, you’re heading south-west to the world-famous Lake Nakuru National Park. Easily identifiable by the scores of pink flamingos that make Lake Nakuru their home, this wildlife haven is located on the floor of the Great Rift Valley surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland.
Time permitting, a short stop is made at Thomson’s Falls, a scenic waterfall on the Ewaso Ng’iro River close to Lake Ol Bolossat. These falls drain the Aberdare mountain range. Arrival is scheduled for lunch at your lodge – Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge which is nestled along Lion Hill overlooking the flamingo pink rimmed Lake Nakuru.
You’ll spend the afternoon on a safari game viewing drive in Kenya’s first and largest rhino sanctuary. Typically, a short visit to Baboon Cliff view point is included. From there, you can gaze out across Lake Nakuru National Park, home to about 550 different plant species including the unique and biggest euphoric forest in Africa, picturesque landscape and yellow acacia woodlands. This 73 mi2 national park packs-a-punch with about 56 different species including white rhino and waterbuck. Greater and Lesser Flamingo favor the shallow soda lake but other water birds including a variety of terrestrial birds numbering about 450 species in total can also be seen here.
SAROVA LION HILL GAME LODGE
The location affords panoramic views of the lake and the picturesque national park. Cleverly laid out, most of the 67 rooms and sitting areas afford stunning views of the lake and the park. The lodge incorporates natural landscaping with tall acacia trees, winding walkways and greens dotted with bird feeders.
In the main restaurant with an interior section and a patio overlooking the pool, lodge grounds and lake, you’ll enjoy buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with live cooking counters preparing specialty dishes. The salad buffet has a wide variety of salads using the fresh ingredients and herbs from the lodge’s own vegetable and herb garden while the dessert buffet has a selection of mouth-watering desserts. Special request dinners can be arranged at various outdoor locations at the lodge including the poolside, or the honeymooners’ corner where guests can enjoy an intimate dinner.
DISTANCE – Approx. 180 Miles
TIME – Approx. 6 ½-hours
DAY 6 – TUESDAY
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE (B/L/D)
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, you head to one of the world's most renowned national reserves - the Masai Mara National Reserve - an area of pristine preserved savannah wilderness in the south west of Kenya, along the border with Tanzania. Here, man and beast coexist alongside one another as they have for centuries.
Wildlife includes lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, and hippos while wildebeest traverse the plains during the annual 'Great Migration'. The landscape has grassy plains and rolling hills, and is crossed by the Mara and Talek rivers. The area is dotted with enkangs (villages) of the Maasai people.
Expect to arrive at the Sarova Mara Game Camp in time for a hearty lunch and a short siesta before you set off to explore the wide open savannah teeming with wildlife. Before you leave on your safari game viewing drive, take a moment to plan any additional activities that Sarova Mara Game Camp features. They offer a Walking Safari Nature Trail, a visit to the Isokon Masai Cultural Village, Boma Dining and Dining in the Bush.
SAROVA MARA GAME CAMP
The rolling plains around the camp are teeming with wildebeest, gazelles and zebras during the migration months, and the camp is situated right in the center of their migration path. A wildlife safari puts you right in the middle of all this action. Get a first-hand account of this epic phenomenon and live to tell the tale. A safari also helps you acquaint yourself with the landscapes of this beautiful African setting.
By virtue of its location and layout, the camp offers an unparalleled plethora of activities and experiences from luxury tented living to bird-watching, mini golf, sport fishing and a unique insight into the Maasai culture at the adjoining Maasai village.
Sarova Mara Game Camp offers spacious luxurious “tents” attractively constructed in light beige canvas with large “windows”, wooden flooring and a permanent roof. All have en-suite bathrooms with large mirrors, WC, hot and cold running water and showers, and are equipped with a fully stocked mini bar, shaver outlets and hairdryers. The emphasis is on tasteful comfort with a smooth blend of the beautiful nature that makes the Mara. All tents are built with spectacular views. Large wooden decks with a comfortable day bed, chairs and table offer a tranquil and relaxing retreat while you listen to the natural sounds of nature.
DISTANCE – Approx. 188 Miles
TIME – Approx. 6 ½-hours
OPTIONAL SIGHTSEEING
EARLY MORNING BALLOON FLIGHT OVER THE MASAI MARA ($495 p/p – 3-hours)
A hot air balloon flight is one of the most amazing ways to experience the Masai Mara. The hot air balloon safaris are ideally suited at the Masai Mara in the open, treeless plains allowing many of the animals to be seen from the air and viewed from an altitude of several thousand feet. The savannah scenery is breath-taking. Balloon safaris take off just before dawn so that you are high above the plains in time for sunrise. Flights last for approximately one-hour drifting wherever the air current takes you. Once back on terra firma, the flight is celebrated with a glass of champagne and a breakfast in the bush.
DAY 7 – WEDNESDAY
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE (B/L/D)
You’ll spend today exploring a region bestowed with savannas, tree-fringed rivers and woodlands. Watch as the resident wildlife amble out with wide, purposeful eyes as the sun begins to set. You may observe crocodiles as they bask in the sun; see ever-alert hippos wallow in muddy, cooling water; and catch the antics of mischievous monkeys overhead. Watch, too, as massive African elephants’ rustle along the forest edge and lanky, graceful giraffes snatch leaves from branches high above
Enjoy your final night under African stars in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Here in this place of extreme peace and tranquility where the rules of the wild are dictated by the animal kingdom, we hope that you have come to being able to put technology aside and look up.
DAY 8 – THURSDAY
DEPART NAIROBI (B)
After breakfast today you return to Kenya's colorful capital, Nairobi. Here, depending on the time of your onward flight or your additional travel arrangements, you have time to enjoy Optional Sightseeing before being transferred to Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
DISTANCE – Approx. 187 Miles
TIME – Approx. 6-hours
POST SAFARI DAY – FRIDAY
ARRIVE NEW YORK CITY (JFK)
On arrival back into New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport early this morning, you
transfer onward to your home destination. Take a moment to reflect on just how your body and mind have benefited from your safari in Africa. We feel sure that shutting off from technology for the past week will have improved your sleep and concentration, reduced stress, improved happiness, and even helped with your mental health.
Welcome the ‘new you’ home. When you next need a Digital Detox, you know where to find us.
