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Hidden Kenya Flying Safari Nairobi – Samburu– Chyulu Hills & Amboseli – Masai Mara

Please consult your international air itineraries for flight details which are subject to change.

Your itinerary includes detailed descriptions and information pertinent to your tour and safari.

Guide, bird and wildlife books and maps may be consulted to enhance your experience.

The lodge, hotel and camp descriptions are those of the owners. Next Adventure cannot verify the accuracy of the descriptions or images used.

Important Notes Regarding Passports & Visas: For US Citizens, visas for Kenya can be obtained on arrival for US $50 per person (subject to change). This fee is payable in cash only. Important: Please be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your travel dates. Also, you will need at least 2 blank pages in your passport for visas and entry & exit stamps. Luggage Restrictions: 33 lbs per person As you will be travelling in small aircraft with limited luggage capacity while travelling in Kenya, your luggage is required to be packed in a soft bag (no hard suitcases allowed) weighing a maximum of 33 lbs including all carry-on items and camera equipment as well. Day 1 & 2 Arrive & explore Nairobi In accordance with your international air itinerary, arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Clear immigration and obtain a visa for US $50 per person for US citizens (not included and subject to change). Collect your baggage and pass through customs. In the international arrivals area, our representative meets you personally and transfers you to the hotel or lodge of choice. We’ll assist you in choosing from many wonderful options: an airport hotel, a boutique inn in Karen or Langata or a centrally-located 5-star property. Your two-night stay will include breakfasts allowing you to sample some of the city’s fine dining options for lunches and dinners. We will suggest optional activities in the Capital City tailored to your interest. Day 3 Chyulu Hills: Ol Donyo After an early breakfast in Nairobi, you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Wilson Airport for a scheduled flight to the Chyulu Hills. On arrival, lodge vehicles take you to Ol Donyo Lodge where your three-night stay is fully inclusive of all meals, drinks, laundry and activities.

Ol Donyo Lodge ol Donyo Lodge is in the heart of the 275,000 acre Mbirikani Group Ranch, located on the slopes of the Chyulu Hills National Park between the Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks in southeast Kenya. Its location is unrivalled with full views of Mount Kilimanjaro and in the path of traditional wildlife migration routes. It is a lodge rich in history, passion and conservation. ol Donyo Lodge’s founder Richard Bonham had often flown over this spectacular landscape but one day in the 1980s, he was moved to land his Cessna

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on the open plains and meet the local Maasai. That was only the first of many meetings, before the birth of a pioneering community conservation tourism project. The concept was simple: Richard brings guests to this remote group ranch to participate in safaris, and the Maasai share the benefits. But nothing in Africa is that simple, really. And so began a life-long relationship with the Maasai, the wildlife and the game ranch. ol Donyo Lodge is a 20-bed lodge, rebuilt and redesigned in 2008, and perched on a hillside, with no two suites or villas the same. What is consistent is the attention to detail, the comfortable yet utterly luxurious décor and the tradition of greatness. Regarded as one of the most attractive lodges in East Africa, ol Donyo Lodge is a place to call home for as long as possible. The breadth and depth of ol Donyo Lodge's living and dining area is absolutely awe-inspiring. Upon entering, one is immediately struck by spaciousness and yet the intimacy. The entire main area is set high on the hillside, and opens completely to the plains below, with Mount Kilimanjaro ever present in the distance. The use of stone, thatch and wood make for a very tactile experience, which fills the senses. The low-impact gunnite construction (a combination of wire, hessian cloth and minimal cement) creates a contemporary style. The space flows, there are no straight lines and unique architectural details give character to every area. The magnificent iron-ore chandeliers coupled with grand fireplace provide a warm glow, accented by the rich earth tones. Arched doorways, indoor gardens, bronze sculptures, Zanzibari wood doors, Victorian furniture and romantic prose grace the space. It is captivating.

Just below the main area, but also on the hillside is a breathtaking infinity pool, complete with a private lounge and dining area. With views of the lodge’s famous waterhole, it is a lovely spot to while away an afternoon. Al fresco lunches on the verandah and or candlelit dinners in the main dining room are wonderful, but we also enjoy hosting breakfasts in the plains and dinners under the African sky; or surprise sundowners and classic English tea in the romantic setting of the bush. ol Donyo Lodge consists of ten expansive guest suites in six stand-alone villas. No two spaces are of the same design but all have a dramatic view of the archetypal African savannah and its flat top acacia trees with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. The décor is luxurious and opulent, while still retaining the atmosphere and sense of place that is an essential ingredient of an outstanding bush lodge. Art from around Africa coupled with the photography of Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher create a commanding space under the high thatch roofs. The design is contemporary and yet traditional. All suites have a lounge, verandah, indoor and outdoor showers, double washbasins, flush toilet and bath, and “star-bed”. The rooftop “star-bed” is accessed from the verandah via a winding stone staircase. This is a fabulous sleep-out option, with utter privacy and all the amenities of the suite just below. Days 4 & 5 Chyulu Hills: Ol Donyo You have two full days to enjoy the diverse activities offered from the lodge (vehicles are 5-seaters that may be shared with other camp guests). We recommend and include a full-day excursion to Amboseli National Park with a picnic lunch. All other meals and accommodation are at Ol Donyo.

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Activities & Experiences at Ol Donyo Lodge

Over 7,000 wild animals find their habitat in and around the ol Donyo Lodge environs. Not only are the "Big Five" here - rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo - but also cheetah, fringe-eared oryx, gerenuk, and giraffe. Guests are able to track wildlife by open game drive vehicles, by foot, or horseback. Late afternoon and early evening drives are featured for those interested in spotting the more elusive nocturnal species. The real exclusivity of ol Donyo Lodge is apparent when out exploring the land. The entire area is reserved exclusively for ol Donyo Lodge guests – no other tourists, no fleets of mini-buses – it’s private, pure and wild. Each day is different, there is no set routine. It is there for the making – a safari of the guest’s design. While it may be tempting to laze around the lovely suites, and bask in the sun next to the private pool, the diverse activities at ol Donyo Lodge are equally as alluring. There is arguably no other lodge in Africa with this wide a range of options for the safari enthusiast. Of course we depart daily in the 4x4 game drive vehicles on the search for wildlife, but the real pleasure of ol Donyo Lodge rests in the more non-traditional mediums of safari. Often, we will simply set out tracking and walking as a means of wildlife viewing. The Mbirikani Group Ranch features an incredible diversity of habitats. Perhaps the most unique is the high-altitude mist forest, where leopard and rhino lurk, and an incredible amount of biodiversity is present. It is a microcosm, unlike any other area of the ranch. So in addition to tracking, a hike to this area, from the lodge, is very rewarding. Imagine being at eye-level with one of ol Donyo Lodge’ 100-pound tusker elephants, or looking at the knobby knees of a giraffe, all while sitting peacefully and absorbing the intimacy of this precious moment. This is ol Donyo Lodge’s open air hide or “log-jam” hide, a mass of heavy logs piled about five feet high and three feet thick, where guests are able to safely view wildlife at exceptionally close range at the lodge’s waterhole. It is a privilege. This “log-jam” hide, located just a short walk from the lodge’s main area, is a lovely midday activity or for those wanting impromptu wildlife viewing opportunities. The Chyulu Hills and its diverse ecosystem lend itself perfectly to horseback safaris. From the mist forests, to the open plains, to the dense woodland, a horse navigates the landscape gracefully. To come along for the ride, and experience wildlife on horseback, is an experience not to be missed. Our team of 20 horses, ranging in size and catering for riders of all levels of experience, takes guests safely through the ranch with excellent prowess. We take pride in the training and care of our horses and have safaris for all experience levels. Many guests who are familiar with excellent horseback safaris elsewhere in Africa have stated, "This is the best horse riding country in Africa." For guests of the lodge, horseback safaris can be a full or half-day activity. We’ve just recently pioneered wildlife viewing from mountain biking which is an exhilarating exploratory activity. We set out across the savannahs with an armed guide and enjoy the freedom of riding among wildlife herds. After a bike ride, why not join our two resident bloodhounds as they scent track through the woodland in a game of ‘hide and seek’. This is an especially prized activity for children. The Maasai of the Mbirikani Group Ranch are as natural a part of the area as the wildlife. After years as partners on the land, Richard & Tara Bonham have a very unique ‘second home’ with the Maasai. Guests are able to visit the Maasai villages on the ranch, without a sense of voyeurism. It is an authentic experience, giving guests insight into the culture and traditions of the Maasai. Please note the Maasai do charge a small fee for taking photos.

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Our proximity to Amboseli National Park gives the opportunity for full day excursions to the park. Guests depart the lodge after breakfast for a leisurely drive across the plains and through small villages. We usually arrive at the park in the mid-morning and depart in the mid-afternoon. We have selected this time of day as it coincides with the time when the guests from the other nearby larger lodges are on siesta, and vehicle density is at its lowest. This is also the time when the elephant and plains game congregate around the waterways and marshes in high density. This excursion can only be guaranteed in advance, please book it at the time of reservation and is subject to additional cost. Day 6 Samburu: Sasaab After an early breakfast, you are transferred to the local airstrip for a scheduled flight (via Nairobi) to the Sasaab airstrip on a conservancy which is part of a group ranch at the western edge of the Samburu Game Reserve. You spend three nights at Sasaab Lodge on a fully inclusive basis with all meals, house drinks (excluding premium champagnes & cellar wines), laundry, accommodation and all activities. After lunch in camp, depart on an afternoon game drive in a camp vehicle which may be shared with other guests, returning for dinner and overnight.

Sasaab

Majestically situated on the high banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River (Kenya’s third largest water-course), Sasaab commands breath-taking views across the arid landscape of the Northern Frontier District towards the jagged peak of Mt Kenya, and offers a truly exceptional safari experience in an area renowned for its variant species.

Sasaab’s design is based on strong Moroccan principles, in which African heat is a central consideration. Each room is over 100m² in area allowing for enormous open air bathrooms and huge comfortable beds. Couple this with expansive views and a cooling plunge pool, and you have the perfect formula. Sasaab is a sensational and stylish lodge set in a wild landscape, amongst the culturally proud and fascinating Samburu tribe. It offers an experience of rare and endangered wildlife enhanced by scenic views of the Ewaso Nyiro river- Kenya’s third largest water course. Set on half a mile of hillside, the lodge provides privacy and harmony with the environment and a taste of true African safari. Built using locally sourced materials and with an exciting Moroccan influence the Carr-Hartley signature of attention to detail and elegance is the trademark of Sasaab. Our nine distinctive rooms have Egyptian cotton sheets on our four poster beds and invigorating showers in our spacious bathrooms. Each room is over one hundred square meters in size and extends out to the verandah and private plunge pool with views overlooking the river and wildlife below. Pass the time lazing on cushions in our ‘souk’ style mess whilst looking out over the rugged Northern Frontier district, or simply relax with a good book by the main pool and watch the elephants amble in the river below.

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Cultural Trips: By appointment and invitation only Sasaab is situated in a culturally rich area offering an exciting mixture of Samburu life. We can arrange special visits to traditional ceremonies such as blessing rituals, weddings, Morani dancing and Manyatta visits. Trips to local Samburu markets on Wednesdays and Thursdays are a highlight of a visit to Sasaab. These markets offer guests an opportunity to see the art and beauty of the Samburu culture through their jewelry and attire. Wildlife Encounter a variety of wildlife on our day or night game drives. Discover lion, leopard and cheetah or the Samburu Special Five (Grevy’s Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk and Somali Ostrich). The wildlife highlight of Samburu is the large herds of elephants, which are especially tolerant of safari cars. Walking and Camel Riding Start your East African Holiday by exploring the Samburu countryside on a camel or enjoy a walk through the breathtaking vastness of Africa on a guided nature walk. We are located on community land and consequently, you can comfortably explore the surrounding area on foot. Fill your senses with the intriguing sounds of the animals close by and the combined scents of the African wilderness. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will learn how to identify and understand the behavior of the animals and insects you see. You will be in awe of the number of different bird species you will encounter. Discover the fascinating plants and herbs and their uses in the Samburu culture. You will also gain an incredible insight into the way of life of the Samburu people and their customs.

Days 7 & 8 Samburu: Sasaab You have two full days for wildlife viewing in nearby Samburu National Park and other activities on the conservancy including morning and afternoon game drives, walking safaris, camel riding or cultural visits. All meals and overnight are at Sasaab. Day 9 Masai Mara: Mara Plains Camp After a breakfast, a camp vehicle transfers you to the airstrip for a scheduled flight to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Here, you are met by a camp vehicle at Ol Kiombo and transferred to Mara Plains Camp. Your five-night stay is fully inclusive of meals, drinks, laundry and shared activities in a 6-seater vehicle with a naturalist guide from the camp.

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Masai Mara Game Reserve Justifiably one of the most famous reserves in Africa, its dominant feature is the great rolling plains of savannah grasslands, which sustain the greatest variety of wildlife in Africa and indeed in the world. The concentration of game is at its highest from July through October when the Mara is host to the annual migration of more than a million wildebeest. However, game viewing is excellent year round with giraffe, buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest and Thompson’s gazelle offering a rich choice for the predators: lion, leopard and cheetah. The Maasai people, after whom the park is named, are nomadic. While on game drives, you will often notice young tribesmen herding their cattle amongst the plains game. They are colorfully attired, usually wrapped in bright red cloths, and armed with spears.

Mara Plains Camp Imagine a camp set right in the heart of some of the greatest predator country in Africa. That is Mara Plains Camp, located on the northern border of the Masai Mara Game Reserve in the Olare Orok Conservancy. Rarely a night passes without lion roaring nearby, while leopard are regularly found to wander through the camp and cheetah have established territories on the savannah off the main area. Mara Plains Camp is a small, high quality, seven-roomed camp under canvas and on raised decks with sweeping views across Kenya’s notable savannahs. It is among the smallest and most personal camps in the Mara region. As one of just three camps currently operating within the Conservancy, which boasts the region’s lowest vehicle density, no mini-buses and only one guest room per 700 acres. It is possible to avoid the high tourist density of the Masai Mara Game Reserve proper, if desired. No other camp in the greater Masai Mara Game Reserve or Olare Orok Conservancy has the privilege of traversing opportunities of Mara Plains Camp. Guests are able to traverse three areas as part of their stay: Olare Orok Conservancy: 30,000 acres Mara North Conservancy: 80,000 acres Masai Mara Reserve: 375,000 acres Mara Plains offers possibly the widest range of activities anywhere in the greater Masai Mara - game drives, quality night drives, nature walks with armed guides, balloon safaris (at extra cost), local village visits (authentic) and unrivalled access to superior wildlife habitat. Accommodation & Facilities Mara Plains Camp is in an extraordinary location on the Ntiakatek River, a mere two kilometres from the Masai Mara’s north-central border. Upon arriving at Mara Plains Camp, it is immediately clear that this is a unique place.

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The camp is secluded, and it isn’t until just before you cross the memorable and grand swing bridge steps that it reveals itself. Once across the river, and under the cool shade of the trees, there is a lovely open grass area leading to the main area.

Mara Plains Camp is centered around three open-air marquis tents connected together in a pod concept. There are two lounges, one with a small library and writing area. A main dining room with a grand wood table and magnificent chandelier host breakfast and some dinners, when we are not dining under the stars. The décor - rich in browns, coppers and reds - is warm and inviting, encouraging a relaxing break from adventures. Also raised on decking, and blessed with sweeping views, the central area brings together the whole camp. As the evening ends, we often move to the open-air campfire and listen as the resident lion prides begin their night’s exploits.

The camp caters for only 14 guests in seven uniquely designed octagonal canvas rooms. Each is raised on decks, and opens on three sides to the outside. Floor to ceiling net walls and the marquis ceiling make for very open-air and inviting environs. The rooms have a dressing area as well as private verandahs with seating and exquisite views. The en-suite facilities consist of a double basin vanity, flush toilet and shower. The fresh air, getting on and off vehicles, and walking will incite an appetite and there’s no going hungry here. Complementary refreshments and snacks are served on all our drives and include tea and coffee on the morning drive and the traditional "sundowner" cocktail in the late afternoon. Laundry is done on a daily basis by your tent steward and is complimentary. The camp operates on a 240V electricity system powered by a generator that operates a few hours a day, when guests are generally not in camp. The generator charges a set of batteries, which in turn pass through an inverter system capable of converting battery power to 240V power. This conversion supplies power 24 hours a day to the entire camp. A set of universal plug points is available in each tent. It is recommended to bring a spare set of batteries so one set can be charged while the other is out on safari. Days 10, 11, 12 & 13 Masai Mara: Mara Plains Camp You have four days to enjoy activities in the Masai Mara Game Reserve organized in consultation with your private guide. All meals and accommodation are at Mara Plains Camp. Safari Experience At Mara Plains Camp, we believe in keeping the experience intimate and personal, so there are no set camp schedule or meal times. Plans are tailored around the whims of the day, and as the wildlife dictates. Typically, we rise just before dawn, have a quick bite, and head out at first light to see what has happened overnight. We look for tracks and signs of nocturnal activity, perhaps heading in the direction of the lion calls and hyena laughs we heard from bed. The big cats are usually quite active in the early hours. As the sun begins to rise in the sky, and the heat mounts, we head back to our mid-day resting post, Mara Plains Camp for a brunch and a bit of a siesta. Or, if guests prefer, it’s a lovely time sit quietly and bird on the river. Our guides will introduce us to the abundant birdlife and can help you identify trees and local plant species, or sharpen our wildlife tracking skills. In the late afternoon, as the sun wanes, we are off again in search of wildlife. It’s a

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time to savor the African sunset with refreshing sundowner drinks and snacks before continuing our drive as nocturnal animals become more active with dusk. A hearty dinner awaits us back at camp, whenever its time to return. We share stories of the day around the campfire and under the stars. So goes another blissful day in Africa. We do regular full-day adventures to the Masai Mara Game Reserve as well. These are particularly popular during the wildebeest migration season. For full day expeditions, lavish picnic boxes with cold drinks are provided. Mara Plains Camp guests have the opportunity to visit a local Masai village (or "Enkang" in Maa) to learn more about the traditions and culture of the surrounding community. Hot air balloon safaris are available but must be booked in advance (at extra cost). This is a very early morning activity, giving stunning views of the sunrise, the landscape and a sense of the sheer size of the Masai Mara region. There is no question that an exceptional guide is a key ingredient to an extraordinary safari. Our guides exemplify the best in the industry. Each day is different and unpredictable. It’s a journey of discovery, filled with the unfamiliar and full of delights. A guide makes it all come to life. Our camp guides are superb, each of who is Kenya Professional Safari Guide Association and are some of the best out there. Our Toyota Land Cruisers have been specially designed by the photographers. The thoughtful engineering provides all-round visibility with a removable canvas roof, and comfortable bucket seats. These rugged, 4X4 vehicles provide access to all of the region’s diverse ecosystems, and do so with ease.

Day 14 Departure This morning, enjoy breakfast and a final game drive as you are transferred to the airstrip for a scheduled flight to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. On arrival, you are personally met and transferred to the Carnivore Restaurant for lunch (included) and, depending on your flight departure, perhaps on to Ole Sereni Hotel where you have a room available for your use until your airport transfers for departing flights.

Kili & Louise McGowan Next Adventure

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