Types of Safaris in Kenya that you may not know exist?

When someone tells you that they are going for a safari to either Uganda or Rwanda, usually the question that follows is “Are you going for a Gorilla trekking safari?”

When most people are told of a safaring in Kenya, what comes to mind is the game parks and wildlife viewing or soaking up the sun on the tropical beaches. However, did you know that Kenya offers these?

Horseback Safaris: 

The main attraction of horse safari is the joy of riding good horses in the wild as you enjoy the landscapes dotted with game. The riding is varied, sometimes quietly walking, stalking big game and admiring the bird life, sometimes cantering through the water-meadows alongside the game! These kinds of safaris are mainly popular in Laikipia and Masai Mara.

Camel Riding Safaris:

As in the Horseback safaris, these are more aligned to being walking safaris aided by camels. These kinds of safaris are usually done in eastern Laikipia, an area north of Mt. Kenya known for its wilderness and wildlife. 

Biking Safaris: 

Biking safaris are mostly done in areas around the lake-parks, that is in Hell’s gate – Lake Naivasha Park and in Lake Nakuru National Park. Most biking safaris are aimed at people who will in the course of the safari do a hike, rock climbing or bird watching, thus you can see where the two “Lake area Parks” come in.  

Valentine's Day Getaway Ideas; Kenya

Valentine's day is around the corner with only a few weeks left before the day. Some year's back I never used to understand why people would fuss about it, after all - It's just a normal day! The truth is that as I grew older,  I slowly got sucked into the world of romance and family ....and I think I even became the mushy romantic type! Hahaha...

This Valentine's day falls on a Friday, thus making it a perfect opportunity for a weekend getaway! As a result, I thought it would be nice to have some ideas of where you could go!

Self -Drive; Rift Valley Lakes

Kenya is blessed to have many lakes; Naivasha, Nakuru, Elementaita, Bogoria and Baringo that are not far from reach especially if you live in or around Nairobi. Most of the lodges currently have great offers valid over that period some even extending  the offers up until 22nd of February,2014!

Advantage: Driving to your destination gives you a chance to bond with you partner through talking.

Beach Getaway

Beach holidays are always romantic! Maybe it is because of the sunset by the beach, while sipping on a cold fruit cocktail as the warm breeze brushes your skin and the soft Caribbean bands play music in the background, I just adore the beach! I love it! Currently, I know of places such as Leopard Beach in Diani and Hemingways in Watamu who have sweet valentine's deal packages and those would be great for a weekend away!

Advantage: Candle lit dinner by the beach is one that you need to experience a thousand and one times!

Safari Getaway

Here is a little secret that people tend not to know or they just assume, immediately we go off the Christmas holidays, the rates of safari lodges drop on the spot. This means that if you have always wanted to go for a safari and enjoy some game viewing or sun-downers in the Masai Mara but the prices always seemed impeccable... Here's your chance!

My Top 5 Places in Lake Naivasha

Usually when I want to go for a short weekend getaway, the first place that comes in my mind; the Lake Naivasha Area. Mainly because Naivasha not only has very many lodges, hotels and Camp sites but it also has some of the most exciting activities that I can do to relax such us, rock climbing, cycling in Hell’s Gate Park, nature walks and so much more! It is also a very pocket friendly destination, where you will spend an average of KES 5,000 (approx US$ 65) per person per night on full board.

My Top 5 places in Lake Naivasha 

Chui Lodge

5. Chui Lodge – Besides being homely and sweet, it is also in the Oserian Sanctuary which i must say is beyond breathless, although a bit expensive, it is the perfect place for that “I want to spend my dosh  this weekend!” kind of place.

4. Elsamere – Truth be told i have always had a soft spot for Elsamere.  Maybe it is because I am a sucker for history and truth be told, Joy Adamson had a lovely life story with Elsa the lion and spending time in Elsamere, only makes me feel like I knew Joy and George and their conservation work..hehehe! I know, you must be thinking “of course you feel like you knew her because of the movie – Born Free” lol

Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort

3. Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort - Ok...I enjoy watching people play golf and even though I do not play myself, this is the perfect escapade to do just that. From the unbelievable neat moaned lawns to the serenity green grass and the breathtaking cottages, this is the perfect family getaway.

2. Enashipai – This place was an instant hit the moment their launched into the market, probably it has to do with their awesome spa or perhaps it is the excellent service offered , this place does live up to the 5 star category!

Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp

1. Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp – I know...you must think this is my number one simply because it is new....which is partly true but this place has its true form of connecting with nature. It is simple, way too pocket friendly and has amazing views!! I think it is the tents that give me a Maasai Mara feeling or it is the waking up to birds singing that makes me know this place is amazing. It is not overly exaggerated or overly priced too and of course with the current economy...let’s just say you will be getting your money’s worth and so, so much more!  

So, which are your quick getaway destinations and why are they you preferred getaways?