What to do in Kenya

When it comes to conservation and unbelievably diverse wildlife, Laikipia has them both in spades. Take your seat on an open 4x4 in the early mornings and late afternoons, setting out to ogle more animals than you could imagine. Laikipia has some of the best wildlife in Kenya including the likes of giraffe, Grevy's zebra, cheetah and growing packs of painted dogs. Keep your binoculars poised to see the Big Five, including almost half of Kenya's black rhino population who graze in the shadow of Mount Kenya!

We'd bet our hides, you've heard of the Big Five, but do you know about the Samburu Special Five? Swap Africa's biggest names for these unique and rare creatures on a game drive through sun-baked Samburu. Roll call...Grevy's zebra (who gather in a dazzle of black and white), the aptly-named long-necked gerenuk who startles by standing on its hind legs to reach the juiciest leaves and produces young throughout the year - keep your eyes peeled for a fawn taking its first tottering steps. Look out for Somali ostrich, long-horned Beisa oryx and striking reticulated giraffe as they meander down dry river beds. And the best part is, most of these animals can't be found anywhere else in Africa.

Kisite Marine Park is just a short boat ride from Msambweni Beach, and is home to one of Kenya’s largest and most spectacular coral reefs. Each morning, visitors to the reef climb aboard a dhow (a traditional East African sailing boat) and venture out for a morning of snorkelling. Dolphins often cruise the islands around the reefs and accompany visitors on these expeditions and then maybe even escort them to Wasini Island to delight in Charlie Claws infamous fresh crabs and a cold coca cola.

Rhinos are under constant threat from poaching, and there are only a few places you can go to in East Africa to find them living safely and comfortably in the wild. Meru is one of these places. The thick vegetation and lush swampy riverlines make the Meru rhino sanctuary a real haven for these prehistoric giants. Forty odd rhinos, an equal mixture of black and white, are monitored closely by rangers working around the clock. With such large numbers, good, clear sightings of them are guaranteed.

Lewa was one of the original conservancies in this area and so has an incredibly diverse spread of wildlife and a naturally high game count. Early morning and evening game drives across the undulating grassy plains and through lush acacia riverlines produces an abundance of wildlife including lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant and buffalo. Lewa is also home to rare Northern species like Grevy’s zebra, oryx, reticulated giraffe and, most important it is a sanctuary for a large number of black and white rhino.

You may have heard of Naivasha, the highest lake in the Great Rift Valley, but we'll let you in on its best kept secret. A short boat ride from the shore (passing pink-eared hippo as you go), lies Crescent Island, a well-protected gem with more wildlife per acre than any other park in Kenya. Put on your safari boots for a scenic walk across the island with flourishing birdlife from pelicans to eagles that soar overhead, and plenty of plains game. Watch families of giraffe snack on acacia leaves or stretch with impressive agility to drink from the water's edge, and wildebeest and gazelle gathered in their hundreds, only disturbed by the occasional jackal. Lay out under the shade for a picnic overlooking the steamy springs of Hell's Gate (which just might be your next stop) before returning to your lodge on the mainland.

Depart from camp as the morning breaks over the plains and the wildlife wakes, or after a siesta in the late afternoon, for a game drive in the bowl of the Great Rift Valley. And believe us, there's plenty to see... Keep your binoculars and camera on hand to spot vast herds of stamping buffalo, prides of lion peering out from the savannah and unmistakable swish of a leopard's tail in the treetops. The park is also home to rare white and black rhino! Trundle past Lake Nakuru where you'll revel in the birdlife, from the tiniest colourful bee-eater to the Verreaux's eagle soaring regally overhead.

Dating back to the 12th century, Lamu Town is the oldest inhabited Swahili town in Kenya, comparable only to Tanzania’s Zanzibar (Stone Town). With its ancient fort, its wood-carved doors, bustling markets and the ubiquitous donkeys, the town is charming and authentic—no wonder UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site. Free from first world influence, Lamu retains all of its old world traditions and with little to no international advertising, it is still relatively un-touristy. At the end of your tour, make sure to pick up a fresh coconut and sit in the town square taking a moment to soak it all in and feel like a local.

The Samburu tribe are Kenya’s most colourful tribe. The women are brightly adorned in beaded necklaces, bracelets, anklets and head dresses whilst the moran (young warriors) display elaborately braided hair dyed with red ochre. Few places in Kenya hold so strongly onto their culture as the 1,200 Samburu families of this district do and so much so that though they welcome visitors to their homes, ceremonies and gatherings, photographs are not allowed.

Just 700m shorter than its more famous sister, Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Kenya is a sight to behold. You emerge from the bordering forests onto stretches of grassy mountain plains broken with deep valleys and lush mountain streams. As you climb higher into the land of giant lobelia’s the temperature drops and Mt Kenya’s three peaks; Batian, Nelion and Lenana tower above you. Those who summit Lenana for sunrise are rewarded with spectacular views, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Mt Kilimanjaro. Technical alpine climbers take on Batian and Nelion, which some of the world’s best climbers have declared to be amongst the most challenging and rewarding technical ascents in the world.

Embark on a safari experience as you peddle over rugged, mountain trails and grassy plains in Laikipia. You'll leave any crowds in your dust while exploring the animal-filled landscapes below Mount Kenya, covering way more ground than a walking safari and getting a truly up-close-and-personal look at the wildlife. Depending on your lodge of choice, your route will take you through a number of lovely conservancies (with a pitstop to see the area's famous conservation triumphs) or further afield for the more adventurous. And you may even be lead by a Maasai warrior! A bike ride through Laikipia could reveal the Big Five in all its glory (including almost half of Kenya's black rhino population), protected big cats, painted dogs and a medley of plains game. It's best to avoid the wet season from March to May for this activity though!

Just shy of dawn or as dusk approaches in the afternoon, chuck your khakis on and head out for a game drive across Samburu's rust-coloured landscape. Amongst the dramatic outcrops, there lurks the Special Six including the stunning reticulated giraffe and long-necked gerenuk who snack on juicy acacia leaves, the elusive Somali ostrich, and down by the snaking Ewaso Nyiro river, Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx and Günther's dik-dik gather for a drink. Driving by the pockets of greenery at the river's edge, you'll spot splashing elephant, hippos soaking in the water and a plethora of birdlife. Take in every inch of this unique and wild park where lions nap under the shade of golden tamarinds and black rhino leave tracks in the sand. Then, return to camp for a well-deserved G&T.

The Great Rift Valley is the gift that keeps on giving, with endangered wildlife and outstanding scenery, and sitting at a lofty 6000 feet, Lake Naivasha is a jewel in its crown. Explore the water on a boating safari, gliding past hippos as they snort and snooze in the lake and watching herds of buffalo, zebra and wildebeest gather on the shores for a drink. With your camera in easy reach, snap the myriad birdlife as they flutter and wade across the water.

Lake Nakuru may dazzle with its birdlife, but its shores attract some rather special visitors too. Take in the startling sight of rare white rhino as they walk beside the lake to enjoy a drink before ambling on to graze in the expansive plains . They're also joined by the elusive black rhino, distinguished by its hooked lip and feisty attitude. As the only entirely fenced national park in all of Kenya, Lake Nakuru has become a haven for these endangered and very rare beauties. On a game drive through this wild corner of the Great Rift Valley, enjoy the bucket list-worthy chance to see the black and white rhinos on their own turf.

Round these parts, horseriding is almost a given! The even savannah leads perfectly into the lush foothills of Mount Kenya, and there are plenty of lodges on pretty conservancies that offer guided rides to find the wildlife. If you can't imagine a better way to explore the plains of Kenya, we're happy to arrange a multi-day excursion. Enjoy a safari from the back of your wild guide, where you can spot protected wildlife like black rhino (Laikipia is home to around half of Kenya's population) and the rest of the Big Five, as well as gangly giraffe, herds of Grevy's zebra and buffalo, and if you're lucky, the beautiful African painted dog.

Ditch the jeep and explore the crisp, crimson landscape of Samburu on foot. Follow your expert guide as they lead you on a journey of tracking black rhinos and the 'Special Five', and spotting the details that are often missed. Let your safari slow to a gentle pace as you stop to learn the names and uses of desert-dwelling flora, discover skeletons left behind by predators (both large and small) and examine rock formations for tiny critters.

Hell's Gate may sound ominous but this other-worldly place makes for an adventurous and epic safari. Named after the gas plumes and bubbling hot springs, a trip here can include hiking into the highlands to see the bearded vulture in full flight or rock climbing towering cliff faces (adrenaline junkies, we're looking at you) and simply marvelling at your steamy, volcanic surrounds. Despite its name, Hell's Gate also has plenty of grassy plains and the game viewing is fantastic. Spot herds of buffalo, zebra and Thomson's gazelle, gangly giraffe chomping on leaves and cheetah sniffing the air for lunch.

If we had to pick one thing that puts Lake Nakuru a head and feathers above the rest, it would be the mesmerising birdlife. Leave the jeep behind to take a walk along the lakeside where you'll see plumage of every colour. Lake Nakuru was made iconic by its flocks of rose-hued flamingos, and after leaving for eight years, the lake's star players have returned to delight twitchers once again. With 500 species and counting, there is plenty more to see. Scan the water and skies for gluttonous pelicans, elegant cranes and the striking long-tailed widowbird. March to May is your best bet for seeing the most birdlife as migratory birds also settle on the lake, while November to April is breeding season when many species are dressed in their finery.

Step out onto the wide open grasslands in the early morning dew or the afternoon sunshine, to experience the Masai Mara up-close. Your guide will provide the 411 on this wild corner of Kenya, as you ditch the rumbling jeep for the melody of the bush. From the ground up, there is something to see...the hundred-legged millipede scuttling by, spotted hyena racing across your path and the martial eagle whose cry echoes across the skies. Lest we forget the safari icons, which you'll watch in wonder, although from further away!

Under a canvas of stars, set out from camp in a jeep to spy on the wildlife as Amboseli comes alive with a whole new cast of creatures. Even more so than the day, night time belongs to the predators. Lions slink between the trees, sniffing out hidden antelopes, and spotted hyenas howl in excitement as they look for leftovers. In the quiet of the evening, scan the brush for a pair of glowing eyes - then try and figure out if they belong to a bush baby, aardvark or even the shy civet. Your guide knows all and won't let any rustle go unnoticed!

The Laikipia private conservancies and game ranches have banded together to make this area a wonderful sanctuary for rare and endangered species. Here, you will find more elusive Northern species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, kongoni, bongo, giant forest hogs and oryx as well as wild dogs, black and white rhino and, most importantly, the last remaining Northern white rhinos in the world in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. These sanctuaries work closely with local communities to eliminate human/wildlife conflict and to encourage harmonious cohabitation and conservation.

As the sky becomes spangled with stars above Samburu's red landscape, you'll be driven out of camp to find a soft spot for the night. There'll be plenty of time for stargazing and you could even spot the Big Five of the African Sky. You couldn't get closer to nature if you tried and your guide will be there to share the secrets of Kenya's wilderness. After dinner, to the sounds of a crackling fire and the symphony of the bush, curl up in your tent for the ultimate camp-out. The sunrise and birdsong act as your alarm clock before you embark on another full day in Samburu.

Get to know the wilds of Kenya on a walking safari over golden grasslands, forested hillsides and wildlife-filled conservancies of Laikipia. Depart just after dawn-break to make the most of the daylight as you track African painted dogs (hopefully seeing them trot across a quiet path) and learning to sniff out where a lion may be snoozing while herds graze bravely on the plains. With the sprawling Laikipia plateau before you, lean in for a closer look as you spy a dung beetle rolling by and examine tree bark for signs of life. If you're staying on private land, there are no strict paths and you can really blaze a new trail. There's also the option to extend your walking safari into a multi-day activity, stopping to camp beneath the stars.

Staying in a conservancy just outside of the main Samburu National Park has its perks, most notably, the night drives! Under a moonlit sky, head out to experience a safari of a different kind when the big cats are in full hunting mode, their eyes glowing from behind the acacias. The daytime crowd has retired for the evening and a new host of creatures can be seen. As your eyes adjust, enjoy a game of 'what's that sound', which your guide should know the answer to and spot the likes of porcupine and mongoose to the bat-eared fox and aardwolf.

As the sky becomes spangled with stars above Laikipia's wild plains, you'll be driven from the lodge to find a soft spot for the night. There'll be plenty of time for stargazing and you could even spot the Big Five of the African Sky! You couldn't get closer to nature if you tried and your guide will be there to share the secrets of Kenya's wilderness. After dinner to the sounds of a crackling fire and the symphony of the bush, curl up in your sleeping bag for the ultimate camp-out. The sunrise and birdsong act as your alarm clock before you embark on another full day in Laikipia.

Leave your home-away-from-home in the Amboseli to meet the people who are the true keepers of Kenya. Dressed in traditional red shukas and ornate beadwork with a spear in hand, it's an honour to meet the warriors of the centuries-old Maasai tribe. Visit a local homestead where you'll hear the stories and legends that have been passed down for generations, listen to traditional songs round the fire and see the landscape through new eyes. You may even get the chance to ask where the name 'Amboseli' came from.

Lace up your safari boots and escape into the plains for a bush walk. Not a common occurrence in most of Kenya's parks, this is the truest way to experience the essence of Laikipia. Led by your experienced guide, venture into the lush hills and tawny valleys to follow the tracks of the African painted dog, see the flutter of birdlife over a flowing river and feel the rumble of elephant on the move. And get to know the local flora and its uses! This is your chance to lean in close and see the details often over-looked! Set out at sunrise or after your morning game drive for a few hours of safari-ing like an explorer.

Leave the coast behind as a traditional dhow carves through the crystal-clear lagoon before you snorkel over colourful reefs while shoals of tiny fish swim by. One of the most popular spots is Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, where craggy coral formations hide eye-catching marine life. Enjoy the temperate waters as an incredible scene plays out below; surreal lionfish on the hunt, sea turtles smoothly navigating the reefs and pods of dolphins moving in playful formation.

When in Laikipia, do as the Samburu do! In the land of wildlife-filled conservancies and epic game-spotting, why not swap the rumble of the engine for the sway of a camel? Go where no car can as you travel over rugged hilltops and forest-covered escarpments, before venturing down into dry river beds to find a trail to track. On a safari by camel, you'll have the chance to get especially close to zebra, giraffe and ostrich, while keeping an eye on the horizon for lion, black rhino and the elusive African painted dog.

If your dreams of the Kenyan coast include a softly ebbing surf and piercing blue waters, Diani Beach is paradise. And it happens to be one of the best places in the country to jump on a boat, put on your SCUBA gear and explore the eye-catching reefs below the surface. A haven for endangered Hawksbill and green sea turtles, you're in for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Explore colourful coral where tiny nudibranches hide and the incredible lionfish glides past - cameras at the ready! A salvaged and re-sunken wreck has become an ad-hoc reef where shoals of fish and moray eels emerge from the portholes. If you plan your journey between November and February (the best time for scuba diving), you may even spot the incredible whale shark as they migrate down the coast and make a pitstop in the shallows off Diani Beach.