The Wonders of Africa

Out of all the holidays and honeymoons I am fortunate to organise, I love working on trips to Africa – whether that be for a once in a lifetime experience trip such as a honeymoon or anniversary, through to a family taking their children on safari for the first time and then relaxing on the beach afterwards, there really is so much to see and stimulate the mind with. My preferred destination in Africa is Kenya which is the subject of numerous wildlife documentaries and is one of the best places in the world for safaris.  There are options to go on a safari by road as part of a small group, have your own vehicle for greater independence and freedom or you can fly between the game parks by light aircraft.  My favourite being a flying safari which allows you to cover great distances in a short period of time which creates more time for game viewing in the many parks and reserves.  Many lodges and camps have their own airstrip or have one close by.  Even the airstrips that are farther away from the lodges or camps turn into an impromptu game drive on the way to airstrip! One of the most enjoyable flying safaris to go on is to fly to either the world famous Masai Mara or the more remote Samburu National Reserve.  Or even combine both!  Typically an itinerary will start with a flight overnight from London to Nairobi where you will be met upon arrival the following morning and transferred over to Nairobi’s Wilson airport and take a one hour flight out to the Masai Mara by light aircraft.  After being transferred to your lodge or camp and enjoying lunch, you will then get an afternoon game drive to enjoy the beginning of your safari and hopefully spot “The Big 5”. Usually at these lodges or camps your meals are included but soft drinks/alcohol are extra.  You will then get 2 further days of enjoying the Masai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives before leaving the following morning back to Nairobi Wilson Airport.  Or of course continue the safari excitement by flying to Samburu National Reserve which is home to some of the most unique wildlife in Kenya and a host of birds and spending another 2 or 3 nights there.  Once your safari has come to an end, no trip to Africa is complete without the total relaxation of either a beach holiday in Mombasa or fly over to Zanzibar Island for something a little bit different. Top safari tip:  Before you fly out on safari, pre-book a Mara Ballooning option which does mean a very early start – rising before dawn, but well worth it!  You are driven to the balloon launch site where after the balloon has been inflated, climb aboard and sail away on an exhilarating flight for about an hour.  Depending on the company you are booked through, the experience usually ends with a lovely breakfast served with all the trimmings including a glass of bubbly where the balloon touches down.