Discovering Kenya

History | Wildlife | How to... | Weather

Kenya is the heart of East Africa, a vast country that possesses golden beaches, massive wilderness areas and a wealth of fascinating tribal rituals. It is often seen as the first port of call for an African safari or a stepping-stone to subsequent safaris in Tanzania, Botswana and Zambia. Because of Kenya's historic tourism development, the country's infrastructure is sophisticated and its national parks well maintained. There's now a vast array of accommodation available to suit every style, taste and budget.

Some history 

Kenya offers an unlimited wilderness destination that's attracted traditional colonials and adventurous big-game enthusiasts from all over the globe. Initially, visits to Kenya were about hunting and ivory trophies during the early 20th century. Now visitors come to absorb the country's energy, its vibrant colours, diverse cultures, wildlife and fascinating history. This diversity is hard to beat and we've plenty of ideas to help you gain a very private experience of Kenya in places that the mass tourism industry simply never touches. Kenya is once again very well worth it, when you know how.

Wildlife and activities 

Typically Kenya conjures up images of vast herds of migrating wildebeest crossing crocodile infested rivers, the classic lion-coloured savannah dotted with umbrella acacia trees, snow-capped mountains, deserts, rain forests, lakes and porcelain white sandy beaches. Some anthropologists even believe Kenya to be the 'cradle of humanity'. Within a landscape that offers a dozen or more varied habitats, safari activities range from game drives to walking and camping, horse and camel rides, diving and white water rafting, bird shoots and fishing trips to hands-on conservation safaris.

How to (and how not to) do Kenya 

Unfortunately, Kenya also conjures up images of 'white minibuses' littering the horizon. This is often the case during peak season, at certain times of day and in areas where there are large bush hotels, for example in the Mara, Samburu, Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. However, hidden away in all of these parks and in other areas of the country, virtually untouched by tourism, lies a network of tiny bush camps, privately run retreats, farms, colonial homesteads and jointly run community camps that do not feature in many tourist programmes. These are the styles of accommodation our clients enjoy. They're small, personal, friendly and most often family run with local communities benefiting directly from your stay. Yes, these camps do exist from the Masai Mara to the Matthews Range!

Our safaris in Kenya aim to be exclusive, though not through using the most expensive camps as cost does not necessarily represent quality in this country. We put safaris together that we enjoy ourselves and to places we know and have experienced first hand. We like our guests to fly between areas, stay in camps where virtually everything is included and to make sure you're in the company of conversationalists or community elders who are motivated, knowledgeable and who are very willing to share their heritage and love for Kenya. These trips are naturally more costly than what you might buy from a standard operator due to the logistics and style of safari. However, importantly, there's no hanging around in airports, no long road transfers, no mini busses and no large groups. This is Kenya revisited.

Weather and Seasons 

Kenya basically has a long dry season from June till October, followed by a summer rainy season that's divided into short rains (from November to December) and the long rains (from March to May). The months inbetween are relatively dry but it's wise to be prepared for a good downpour, whatever the season. The country is spectacular during the rains so don't be put off. The coast is hot and humid for most of the year while there are several regional variations inland depending on where you are and the altitude. Virtually all of the lodges are open year-round, however, many of the smaller camps and bush style homes close between mid-March and May.