Kenya Rediscovered

KENYA REDISCOVERED

When you think of Kenya, perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is the Maasi Mara, Africa’s consummate game park and one of the most popular safari sights. And no wonder, this is where thousands upon thousands of wildebeest undertake their treacherous paths along the Mara River as part of the annual Great Migration with lions slumber among swaying leaves of grass.

For all of the Maasi Mara’;s awe inspiring natural wonders, however, there are even more unforgettable sights and sounds to be found beyond it. By camel, horseback, hot air balloon or helicopter, its all waiting to be discovered.

An African safari is on many people’s “bucket list” of dream vacations. It is an absolutely marvelous trip for grandparents to take their children and grandchildren on.

With Emirates Air cutting a day off travel time by going to Dubai instead of thru Europe, it is not the horrendous journey it used to be. I recommend all travel to this part of the world avoid going thru Europe. A safari is also a popular choice for a honeymoon.

Exploring the vast beauty of Kenya’s national parks is not limited to 4x4’s, especially in the north. Here the Laikipia District encompasses two million acres of vast plateaus with the impressive snow capped Mount Kenya serving as a backdrop for all members of the Big Five, as well as the highly endangered Black Rhino (half of all Kenya’s Black Rhino reside in Laikipia) In the Northern Highlands, its likely you will meet members of the Sambura tribe, many of whom road through the plains herding cattle and camels. A camel safari is an unparalleled experience unique to this area.

Laikipia’s rich farmlands are also home to a number of ranches, many of which offer riding safaris, allowing you to get very close to wildlife without disturbing their natural habits such as grazing, sleeping or feeding their young. The ranches have a variety of horses available to suit each rider’s comfort level.

For a wonderful bird’s eye view of Kenya, there is no simpler way to take to the air than with a hot air balloon ride over the Rift Valley. Many of the hot air balloon rides take off from the safari lodges and hotels in the Naivasha and Nakuru regions at sunrise, drifting over the plains of Delamere and later towards the shores of Lake Elmenteita.

If this slow pace of travel is not for you, we can arrange for a charter helicopter ride allowing you to cover more ground and fly directly into some of the most remote luxury camps.

Several of the safari outfitters are giving back to the local communities, by building schools, helping with the education, and more. We recommend Micato, Abercrombie and Kent, and African Travel. Each do an excellent job, it all depends on which safari you select and the lodges. All three are preferred members of the Signature Travel Network which ensures our clients get extra amenities

This is not an inexpensive trip because of the great distance you are covering. Prices vary according to time of year, whether you are in a tented camp, or luxury lodge, and of course, the length of the safari. Everyone raves about their trip, and says it was the best experience of a lifetime.

Kenya has a special place in history of the British Empire. In June 1952, Princess Elizabeth was staying in a rustic tree house lodge while on a Commonwealth Tour.

For the first time in history of the world, a young girl climbed into a tree one day as a Princess, and then climbed down as a Queen. Her father, King George VI died while she was there.

The British Governor in the late l890’s wanted to have the tribe wear British clothes and they refused. They are unique in wearing the bright colored robes that they do.

To teach them a lesson, he took many cattle off one warrior as a fine so the chap threw his spear and killed the British Governor, then cut his head off and used the hair to clean his knife. The British did not have an easy time in making Africa part of the colonies.

One itinerary I like has the intriguing name of the Livingstone Wing Safari. It encompasses everything Kenya is famous for, magnificent scenery, breathtaking wildlife, fascinating cultures and classic safari excitement and adventure. You visit Amboseli, romantically situated in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, the rugged Laikipia Plateau, and fabled Massai Mara. I love to see the Maasai Mara Warriors in their brilliant red robes do the amazing jumps when they dance. Watching them stand on one leg is another usual thing to observe. The beaded headwear and necklaces on the women is amazing at the volume of items they carry.

My weakness is buying books on every trip. A book I have proudly on my coffee table is Maasai, text by Tepilit Ole Saitoti and photos by Carol Bechwith. which takes me back to my wonderful adventure.

Plan an African safari, you won’t regret it.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel/Frosch

825 Santa Cruz Ave

Menlo Park, CA 94025

650-961-2340 direct

www.AHTInfo@Frosch.com

www.froschvacations.com