SARUNI SAMBURU – TOP KENYAN DESTINATION

Samburu land stretches from the foothills of Mt Kenya into the North, which makes up the wild beauty of Kenya’s outback. Here you will find open spaces, serenity and some of the best opportunities for game safaris as well as other outdoor activities.

Apart from the new tarmac road leading from Isiolo towards Marsabit, there is no other stretch of Kenya’s wild North so easily accessible.

Encounter the fascinating pastoralist culture of the Samburu people who lent the land their name and are also cousins of the famous Masai.

24 Jun 2012, Samburu National Reserve, Kenya — Samburu warrior on top of Ololokwe mountain, Kenya — Image by © Frederic Courbet/Corbis

The Ololokwe mountain, the scared mountain where prayers are said and blessings are given, signifies you’re in Samburu land.

Saruni Samburu is surrounded by a private wildlife conservancy, and perched on a spectacular view point on top of the Kalama mountains, with an unbelievable view of Kenya’s wild north, right from your room.

The vastness and purity of the Samburu landscape will make every visit a unique experience. So quiet, so serene, its beauty is jaw dropping!

The Ewaso Nyiro River which means ‘brown water’ in Maa, the joint language of Masai and Samburu, flows from the misty Aberdare Range and Mt. Kenya through Samburu land before merging with the huge Lorian Swamp further to the East. This river’s water is the ultimate lifeline for man and his cattle as well as for the huge herds of game.

Surrounded by doum palms and the sound of nature, once again, your body just relaxes. The scenery is picture perfect, you can truly feel the spirit of Samburu.

Back at Saruni, a massage session like no other was waiting for me. It’d bet a good amount of money there isn’t one in the world that could compare! I think the picture says it all #MassageWithaView

Perfect sundowners, remarkable vantage points, an extraordinary way to deepen your connection with Kenya’s northern frontier – Samburu.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

http://www.sarunisamburu.com

Saruni Reservations Office Contacts


Office mobile: +254 (0) 735 950 903
Office landline: +254 (0) 202 180 497

Reservations – reservations@saruni.com

SAGANA WHITE WHITE RAFTING & BUNGEE JUMPING

*Thumps chest Tarzan style* “Bring on the adventure!!!!!” ….but wait, what are the chances of me dying here? Adventure sports is not for the faint hearted, which makes me probably the least suitable candidate for it! But hey, we had a Travel show to film, so i figured why not step out of my comfort zone?!

Luckily we live in a country that provides both unique and thrilling experiences when it comes to adventure sports. And we found a few great options that exist within the most beautiful natural settings, at the Savage Wilderness Camp.

Sagana is a small town 100 kilometres north of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It’s name comes from Kenya’s longest river, Tana River. Pass the Embu/Nyeri junction towards Nyeri, and then branch off onto a dirt road to the camp

Now imagine how pleased i was (NOT!!!) when i found out i had to tackle 2 activities in one day! Besides white water rafting, i was also going to experience my first ever bungee jump! (I threw up a little in my mouth) Sagana also offers outdoor activities, team building and zip lining across the river all under the close supervision of very professional staff.

White water rafting is a challenging activity using an inflatable raft to navigate a river. This is usually done in white water and different degrees of rough water, in order to thrill and excite (though that’s debatable) the raft passengers. Rafting in Kenya has been popular for over 20 years and has some of the best rafting on the continent.

You don’t have to be in perfect shape nor do you need swimming skills for this. Just be mentally prepared for the various rapids and differing strengths and please pay attention when the instructor gives you tips on how to handle them.

I have to admit, i ABSOLUTELY LOVED white water rafting! It was such a rush!

We fell out a few times, were bounced around a lot and i must have swallowed 2 gallons of water when i took on the ‘Devils Toilet’. I think i must have i banged my head against a rock, as i was the first to volunteer to hurtle down into the dreaded Devils toilet bowl. You get swallowed and swished around in the water…kinda like being flushed around in a toilet bowl “Gulp gulp gulp”

If you want to go totally nuts, (and i seemed to be surrounded by a lot of that) how about jumping off the waterfall along the route into the cool waters of the Tana River below

Available too is Kayaking a challenging recreational activity using a plastic boat to navigate a river or other bodies of water. A physically challenging but thrilling experience!!!

Bungee jumping is for the daring and has become more popular in Kenya too. The weight limit is between 40kg to 110 kgs, and you will be jumping off a custom built steel tower 200 meters above. With the view of the Tana river below.

Feeling a sense of euphoria and confidence after surviving the rafting, i exclaimed in glee “Next we bungee jump!!!” And then i looked around and everyone else had taken off! Buggers!!!!

At the same venue, Bungeewalla Limited run a great bungee jump experience, off the tower right above the Tana River. First of all you’ll be weighed in to make sure you’re within the approved weight limit. And if you think a couple of tequilas will help take the edge off, forget it! You’re not allowed to attempt this whilst tipsy or otherwise (DARN IT)

To be quite honest, the hardest part of the bungee jump for me was climbing up the 178 steps to the top of the tower. By the time i huffed and puffed my way up, i probably fell out the steel cage due to exhaustion more than anything 🙂

I can’t really put into words what that fall felt like. There’s just nothing to quite describe it! Though if you were there to witness it, the words that I used the most were “Holy sh*t! aaarghhh!! Bleep Bleep AAAAAAArghhhhhhh BLEEPING BLEEP”

All in all, a once in a lifetime experience and i would highly recommend both activities to anyway thrill-seeking, fun-loving or mad as a hatter human being!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

WHITE WATER RAFTING http://www.savagewilderness.org

BUNGEE JUMPING Email : reblin@mitsuminet.com
Telephone : +254 712 3094 / +254 733 613 132 / +254 734 819 361

BORANA CONSERVANCY

With beautiful landscape and incredible views, the Borana conservancy is a shining example of how important conservation is for the Kenyan economy and community at large

Overlooking the Samangua valley, the Lewa plains, including the Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya, this location provides the ultimate off road adventure.

Attractions are in plenty with amazing sights on your game drive.

Nature and sports lovers will enjoy a ride on mountain bikes through the conservancy with frequent sightings of Giraffe, Gazelles and Zebra. However my camera man was laughing hysterically at how bad i am at riding a bicycle and I’m pretty sure i heard a Zebra ‘hee haw’ at me as I wobbled past! Hmph…i still had to worry about being cool despite being in the bush 😦

Or experience the ultimate safari on horse back ,where you can get pretty close to the wildlife around. I never got to ask if it’d work with a Pride of Lions though! Erm…probably NOT!

From fly fishing, to buggies and quad bike safaris as well as paragliding for the more daring, a stay at Borana Lodge is never dull!

A visit to the Ngare Ndare forest will be memorable though i admit i was grumbling and sweating all the way up and down the trek. But I quickly changed my tune once i got to the main attractions *insert gasp here* It started off with a trek to the natural rock pool, a serene safe haven, where you can actually jump off the rock into the deep waters below very safely and enjoy a forest pool swim. Another steep trek down will get you to the stunning waterfall, which the British army use as part of their training .

 

Ngare ndare forest promises a very unique forest canopy walk, unlike most bush or forest walks, this takes place on a 400 meter long stretch whilst your route is suspended above the ground. There have been many times nature enthusiasts have been walking above with elephants roaming around below. Erm…just hope the Elephant don’t stay put for hours below you, otherwise that would be awkward!

Borana conservancy in Laikipia, a stunning combination of scenery adventure and Kenya’s call of the wild

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

WEBSITE http://www.borana.co.ke

TEL +254 20 2115453
EMAIL bookings@borana.co.ke

TROUT TREE NANYUKI

Looking for a fun weekend getaway in Kenya? Now I don’t know about you but the elements I look for in a weekend holiday are good company, a unique location and a balance between fun and relaxation. And my friends and I found just the place at Trout Tree Nanyuki

It’s is located less than 100m off the main Kiganjo-Nanyuki Road and 3km from the Nanyuki Airstrip.  Built in and around a huge Sacred Fig Tree, the restaurant serves fresh trout from the trout ponds below, char-grilled to perfection.

Surrounded by lots of pretty flowers and greenery, the restaurant can seat up to 60 people and has some adorable resident Colobus Monkeys I managed to meet in person and cute Tree Hyrax.

The unique Tree house style restaurant with its windy staircase sets an exciting atmosphere and is a huge hit with children as well as the young at heart

They also have a play area for kids, or perhaps in the case of Soulo and I, oversized children! Excited about the prospect of choosing our own fish we headed down to the trout tree ponds to place our order. Here u can watch them catch the fish fresh from the water, make your selection and have them cleaned and ready for grilling.

Another unique feature at trout tree is being able to order your refreshments straight out of the pond. The crates of sodas and beers are attached to the pulley system and you can pass the time waiting for your meal, by pulling up your order of drinks!

If its perfectly grilled trout you’re looking for then trout tree is the spot to visit whether as a family or group of friends. Their menu also includes prime Laikipia beef and vegetarian options, while at weekends a kids’ menu is available and the pizza oven is fired up.

Nestled in the lower end of the Trout Farm, Creaky Cottage provides memorable and unique accommodation.  Set in a tranquil corner, by the Buruget river, this self-contained cottage sleeps up to 6 people.

Creaky Cottage is so named because it is built around a huge evergreen Podo tree that towers over and shelters the house.

For those who would rather not cook, meals can be ordered from the restaurant.  As I was assigned kitchen duty for the night, we decided to freshen up and head to nearby Nanyuki town to get some groceries and do some exploring.

There’s lots to do in Nanyuki with plenty of interesting and creative roadside curios.

We also found the perfect place to buy some meat to cook for dinner but couldn’t resist the smell of nyamachoma and enjoyed a tasty and pocket friendly meal at the same time.

You must visit the Lily pond arts centre which has a lovely restaurant. We however, had greedily enjoyed two meals already, so opted to just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Back at creaky cottage, a cook can be organized to assist you with whatever preparations are necessary for your meals and their kitchen is fully functional.

The next morning after a very well rested night, we set up breakfast in the garden of trout trees creaky cottage, with the sound of the river in the background as you chat… and with the pretty rays of sunshine beaming through the trees, this was a beautiful end to a fun and relaxing weekend in Nanyuki with great friends!

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ORA RESORT WATAMU

I must say I’m obsessed with Watamu!!! What a little piece of paradise along Kenya’s coast

And in the small town of Watamu, I found a quiet resort to enjoy an incredible holiday. Ora Resort. Located at the entrance of the Watamu Marine Park, this hotel offers stunning sandy white beaches and enchanting ocean views accessible from any part of the Hotel.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities and the first thing I did was change and head off to the sand bank in Watamu bay that emerges during low tide. Clear white sand, warm sunshine on your back and only the sounds of the sea…erm and yes, my cliche wanna be model poses! 🙂

Ora Resort boasts of 200 rooms that are divided into single or double floor bungalows set in lush green gardens.  Each room has wide windows with views of the Ocean and come equipped with air conditions, safes, telephones, a Veranda and outside seating. Each room can accommodate up to a maximum of 3 adults or 2 adults + 2 children.

It’s a miracle I didn’t turn into a snotty nosed brat after this holiday, especially after the treatment I received from their spa!! You have the option of setting up a massage session out by the pool if you prefer.

A little TLC…

Working up an almost frightening suntan, I took full advantage of their two swimming pools; one is quiet and secluded or if you need some exercise their second pool is always very lively with regular music and exercise routines

Dinner was a grand affair and on my way to the evening cocktails I couldn’t resist first stopping by their telescope to do a bit of star gazing.

I was in great company and chatted away and enjoyed delicious cocktails before we sat down to a special dinner set up in the garden. A special sea food dinner that comprised of crab, shrimp, octopus and red snapper as well as plenty of chicken and lamb chops for the meat lovers. I didn’t dare step on a weighing scale for months thereafter!!!

A popular activity in Watamu is snorkeling in the Watamu Marine Park, I was transported into a whole different world, with pretty coloured fish, interesting coral formations and the beautiful sights under the sea. A truly magical experience.

For the more daring, kite surfing has become quite trendy along the coast and there are instructors available to will provide the equipment and instructions needed

Back at the resort, the lunch call is always a celebration of song and dance and they encourage you to join in the fun!!

Lunch time!!

Customary lunch time celebrations

Best….holiday….EVER!!!!!!

 

Soaking in paradise

DESERT ROSE

I was tingling with excitement as the Travel Diaries crew set out on what we knew would be a great adventure, to a place that had only been described as the holy land…the origin of life… spiritual and pure. We would have to drive many hours to get to this special lodge on the slopes of a holy mountain, Mount Nyiru.

Early start to Desert Rose

As the landscape starts to change, the anticipation grows, wondering when we would finally arrive and just how beautiful could this spot be compared to others

The drive up was an experience in itself, at a very steep incline. Only an experienced driver will have the nerves to get you safely to the top.

Desert rose is a unique eco friendly lodge located on the slopes of Mt Nyiru  which towers majestically above the Elbarta plains, between Karisia Mountains and Lake Turkana. Considered holy by the Samburu people most important celebrations of the community traditionally take place at the top of the mountain. They claim a visit to desert rose is life changing, if there ever was a perfect place to find inner peace, to meditate or reflect upon life, its right here.

Pool view of Mt Nyiru, Desert Rose

A stay at Desert Rose is very relaxed and serene and you can spend a lot of the time walking around their pretty garden and lawns, lounging by the pool and taking in the sights or relaxing with a good book

Since this is considered a spiritual spot, I then went further out in search of their labyrinth.

The Labyrinth

The labyrinth has long been used as a creative or spiritual tool. It’s a meditation tool consisting of an intricate single line path and can calm a distracted or over active mind. They say when troubled by disturbing emotions or unfortunate events in your life, walking a labyrinth can help resolve your inner discomfort and still your mind enough for you to get clarity of what is going on.

Walking within the labyrinth

Peace and Serenity

Accommodation consists of five unique houses, two cottages with double beds, two twins and a family house. The houses are entirely secluded, which guarantees comfort and intimacy. All are hand-made and individually designed around various natural features.

Lunch proved to be an exciting and grand affair. It started off with a short walk from the lodge through the forest. And it opened up to a beautiful sight and perfect location for a meal.

You may have been entertained by traditional dancers at modern hotels but nothing beats the authenticity of experiencing it in a forest!

Our journey back to Nairobi wasn’t an easy one with lots of car trouble and break downs along the way, almost a slap of reality after spending a few days under a magic spell at Desert Rose.

Road trouble

Spiritual, remote and hidden on the slopes of Mt Nyiru. Desert Rose is guaranteed to be one of the most scenic spots in Kenya you’ll ever experience.

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segments, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download travel segments via Android only

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

What is the name of the Holy Mountain that Desert Rose is built on?

Winners will be announced every Friday

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MALU NAIVASHA

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s visit to Malu in Naivasha as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

Luxury tree houses, a lush green forest, a magical forest plunge pool and throw in a few cows and chickens? “Tell me more, I’m intrigued” I said to Lucy who was researching on hidden holiday gems in Kenya.

A gem it truly turned out to be, I honestly couldn’t believe this was the first time I was hearing about Malu lodge in the Naivasha area.

Nestled in an ancient forest with sweeping views over the Great Rift Valley, Malu is a stunning getaway and the perfect base for exploring the Rift Valley and many national parks and just a 90 minute drive from Nairobi.

Fifty years ago the entire escarpment was covered with this forest—now the Malu section is almost the only piece remaining, making this area of vital importance to the bird and wildlife of the area, as well as the fragile Naivasha basin ecosystem. You have the freedom to walk and ride through one of East Africa’s original highland forests, where leopard, buffalo and zebra roam. Their horses & mountain bikes provide a unique close encounter with this untouched wilderness.

Children especially love Malu lodge for its opportunities for contact with the physical world. They provide unique opportunities for bird watching, horse riding, donkey cart rides, and mountain bike activities as well as feeding of their farm animals.

Walks range from gentle strolls to challenging hikes, and there are superb riding trails for both novices and the more experienced. A unique plunge pool built into the Mahindu stream amidst overhanging figs and vines is fed by natural hot water springs, perfect for a relaxing dip.

Their accommodation ranges from family villas to cottages and a large tree house

Malu is the last remaining indigenous cedar forest on the eastern rift between Longonot & Nakuru, and is recognized as an area of vital importance to the fragile ecosystem of the Naivasha basin.

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Malu, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download highlights from ‘Malu Naivasha’ via Android only bit.ly/1yYTmOb

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the blog’s comment section:

How many minutes drive is Malu from Nairobi?

Winners will be announced every Friday

Baringo County

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s hiking experience with her friends Koitaba and Danny in Baringo, as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

The Great Rift Valley

The Rift Valley boasts some of the most breathtaking sights, stretching from the Middle East, down through Africa. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many of the lakes in the Eastern Rift Valley such as Lake Turkana, Baringo, Elementaita and so on but never fully took advantage of the hiking trails that have opened up in Baringo.

Lake Elementaita

A road trip through the Great Rift is most enjoyable due to the beautiful landscapes, views with plenty of farming in the area. Our first stop was at Mogotio in Baringo county as our guide William Kimosop showed us the county’s tourist information centre. If you wish to go on a hike, they will provide you with all the information required such as mapping of trails and exposing the various attractions in the area that one can enjoy. You can also ask for an experienced guide to accompany you on your hike.

Tourism information centre, Mogotio

We headed off to the Radat trail and we were most excited to discover a trail rich in history, apparently used during the days of the explorers, slave trade, introduction of Islam and Christianity. Needless to say it’s a historical hiking route. It runs through Bogoria, over the Tugen Hills into the Kerio Valley and terminates at Chororget in the Keiyo Escarpment. Due to the fact that it runs right across the Rift Valley, Its been christened “The Trans Rift Trails”

The Trans Rift trails

Trans Rift Trails

This trail utilizes the same footpaths used by the local community but opens it up for visitor use. Tourists and general visitors can disembark at different points and walk it for as long as they like

Heading to Radat River

Beautiful trek down to Radat river

We also made our way to the river at Radat, that the community use as a source of water as well as a crossing point and makes for a very beautiful and serene resting spot after a long hike.

Radat River

Resting at Radat river

Trek back up with Radat river in the background

We stayed over in a farm house that night, and we were well rested and ready for another full day of hiking in Baringo county.

Sunset in Baringo county

Our host, Kimosop, brought us to a beautiful sight the next morning, the Lembus forest. A safe and exciting trek through the lush green trees and bushes.

Lembus forest

Nature walk in the forest

And we came out at the Pekera river that flows from the resting spot I had enjoyed at Radat river

Pekera river

Pekera river

Resting at Pekera river

Our last hike we all agreed produced the most breathtaking sight yet! The high forested slopes of Kapkut overlooking the start of the Kerio valley. The Kapkut triangle is the highest point in Baringo county and the headwater source for Kerio river, Lake Baringo and Lake Turkana.

Kapkut Triangle

Resting at the top

What a great discovery in Baringo county, its not only scenic but a unique location for so much nature and history to be discovered by foot.

Note: If you would like to plan a hike in Baringo, contact William Kimosop on 0720317760

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Baringo, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download ‘Baringo County’ via Android only bit.ly/1IDWjU5 (make sure your data is turned on and wifi off)

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

What is the highest point in Baringo county?

Winners will be announced every Friday

JOYS CAMP, SHABA…Born Free land

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s visit to Joy’s Camp as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

Who didn’t love watching “Born Free”?! No seriously…who? Stand up so I can pinch your nose! I vividly remember the first time I watched it as a young girl, sitting on the cool sitting room floor in our family home in Mombasa. Wide eyed in wonder. I was convinced that the actors Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers were actually Joy and George Adamson, I mean no one else in the world was crazy enough to play with lions right?

In case you’ve been asleep for over 30 years and have never heard of ‘Born Free” it was Joy Adamson’s sentimental and moving account of how she raised to maturity a wild club, Elsa and returned it to live freely in the wild. Since moving to Nairobi, I’ve watched “Born Free” six times over and each time, I’m still enthralled and caught up in the Adamsons’ story that casts an irresistible enchantment. This film makes you fall in love over and over again with not only Lions but the vast wilderness of Kenya.

Born free land – Shaba pic via acebourke.wordpress.com

Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers who played Joy and George Adamson in the movie Born Free

Joy Adamson

Joy Adamson and Elsa

So you can only imagine my excitement when ‘Travel diaries’ set off to film in Shaba and more specifically, Joy’s Camp, built on the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home in Shaba National Reserve.

Joys camp, built where Joy Admson lived in Shaba. via chelipeacock.com

The spirit of Joy Adamson still lives strong in the area, rich with her history, a favourite with film crews and provides for a very special holiday in the wild. The camp overlooks a large natural spring where wildlife frequent as a source of water in this otherwise dry and hot area.

via chelipeacock.com

There are pictures of Joy’s old camp at the lodge, and a small gallery of Joy Adamson memorabilia, which includes her original driving license amongst other very interesting personal possessions

I was eager to explore and immediately set out on a drive to learn more about the area she had called home. A few minutes from the camp we stopped at the spot where Joy Adamson had been stabbed and murdered by one of her workers who confessed he killed her because she refused to pay him for two weeks of work. She died on the 3^rd of January 1980

Joy and Elsa via classicsafaricamps.com

Bird watchers will also love this spot as its the only place you can find the Williams lark bird, very rare to see and difficult to film. This park was made famous by the “Born Free” film but Karen Blixen based movie “Out of Africa” was also partly shot in the Shaba reserve.

Meryl Streep in Out of Africa

Robert Redford and Meryl Streep in a scene from Out of Africa

Joy Adamson with Penny the leopard

We also visited Penny’s rock, where a female leopard named Penny whom Joy raised at her home at Lake Naivasha, was eventually released to the wild. Further up was an abandoned film base where we were told the 1999 movie based on George Adamson, ‘To walk with lions’ was filmed and you can still see the high directors tower from which scenes with the lions were filmed as well as abandoned cages where the lions for the movie were kept

Abandoned Directors tower – To Walk with Lions

Cages the Lions for the movie were kept in

Father of Lions – George Adamson

A lion rests after taking his fill of Zebra, whilst George Adamson keeps him company

The Shaba gorge was the stunning backdrop for the popular TV series survivor Africa and I huffed and puffed my way through the stunning and impressive trek for two hours and was treated to a champagne breakfast for my efforts!

Shaba gorge via davidandersonsafaris.com

Shaba gorge via furstenberg-safaris.com

Champagne breakfast via cheliandpeacock.com

Shaba is a picturesque and secluded location; rocky hills and landscape, with lush springs and river gorges… and Joy’s Camp is the perfect choice for discerning guests interested in a glimpse of Kenya’s history, as well as those looking for an authentic wildlife experience

Elsa relaxed on camp bed via geocaching.com

George and Joy Adamson

George Adamson via oldlinesafari.com

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Joys camp, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download ‘Joys Camp’ via Android only bit.ly/1BYgNEK

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

On what date did Joy Adamson die? (Full date)

Winners will be announced every Friday

THE FLOATING HOUSE IN KILIFI – Eve D’Souza

Call it sticking to my comfort zone, or extreme laziness (more accurate) but every time I’d go home to Mombasa for the holidays, I’d be more than comfortable to vegetate at our family beach house. My cousins would rave on about their day trips to Kilifi, which was only a 40 minute drive away. But like a sweaty beached whale, I convinced myself the Mombasa sun makes it humanly impossible to move any limbs, thus my visit to Kilifi was shelved.

Dhows in Kilifi creek

Bofa beach Kilifi via thomson.co.uk

It took filming the travel show, “Travel Diaries” to finally get me to Kilifi. And boy did I feel super daft that I hadn’t made an effort to visit this tropical paradise earlier! Kilifi is a small coastal town located on the Kilifi creek between Mombasa and Watamu. With so much to offer it is surprising this spot has stayed relatively quiet and free from crowds all these years!

This is where we found a holiday spot like no other in Kenya – The floating house.

Floating house Kilifi

View of the Kilifi bridge from the floating house

Excited about the prospect of sleeping out on the water, the first thing I did when we arrived was jump into their boat and head across to our new home for the weekend. As the boat gets closer you can’t help feel a tinge of anxiety and excitement.

The Floating house – travelingkenya

Great house for water lovers – travelingkenya

This very unique floating house is available to rent at a very affordable price per night and sleeps 6 people. Need less to say, ideal for families or groups of friends, especially if you love the water!!

Courtesy 3degreessouth

The floating house

The floating house is equipped a fully functional kitchen where you can cook all your meals, with running water and electricity. The bedrooms are airy and comfortable, with one double, bunk beds and a twin. The upper deck provides for great views all across the creek.

One of the bedrooms – travelingkenya

Bathroom in the floating house – travelingkenya

Kitchen facilities in the floating house – travelingkenya

Built almost entirely using hardwood, the floating house is permanently anchored a few meters from the shore The following morning, I woke up early to try catch the sunrise and cook breakfast, the fish weren’t left out as you get to feed them from the side of the house as well. As quiet and serene it is out on the creek there’s lots of water action in store. Starting off with jumping off your house straight into the water for a cool swim. It does take you back to your childhood days and this I imagine would be popular with everyone no matter what age, well as long as you can swim!

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

3 Degrees South provide excellent and affordable water sports activities within the creek and are based at the boatyard. Having worked up an appetite and too lazy to cook, I chose to take the boat across to the boatyard restaurant and order their legendary world-class crab samosas. Sea food lovers will find this an absolute treat and this is the very places in Kenya you can sample the best crab samosas on offer.

The boatyard restaurant

There’s also stunning Bofa beach to stroll along and a visit to the gorgeous Mnarani Club in Kilifi

Bofa Beach Kilifi

Mnarani Club, Kilifi

Bofa beach

View of the Kilifi creek

To wrap up the holiday by the creek in a special way, Boatyard can organize a memorable sundowner out on a dhow. With the cool calm water lapping at your feet, the hot sun preparing to go down and just one or two boats out on the creek… enjoy a slice of serene coastal heaven in Kilifi.

Out on the water

The calm waters of Kilifi

Sunset in Kilifi

INFORMATION ON KILIFI FLOATING HOUSE Contact information +254 722 442 334 +254 723 146 291 Restaurant:
+254 20 350 9505 Sleeps six people maximum in one double, bunk beds and two singles. Check in time after 2pm. Check out time before 11am on day of departure. The master bedroom has a mosquito net and fan. The Floating house is serviced daily and there is 24 hour dinghy service to the shore. Kilifi Yacht Club Beach Bar and Restaurant is fully licensed and open daily from 7am to 7pm serving delicious food. Dhow trips can be arranged and contacts given for other activities. Water sport activities are available at Kilifi Boatyard through www.3degreessouth.co.ke Anne: +254 714 757 763 Email: info@3degreessouth.co.ke

EXPLORING MT SUSWA LAVA CAVES – KENYA’S DOUBLE CRATERED VOLCANO

Let it be known, I am probably the 2nd laziest person in the world – Gaetano takes 1st place – when it comes to outdoor activities. Actually, before we started filming Travel Diaries, I thought nature walk lovers were high on cheap drugs. Why else would they constantly try regal me with stories about peculiar insects, untamed greenery, dirt trails, sweat…Erm no thanks. Four years later, I sit here (yes I’m still mildly lazy) a changed woman. There is something about nature that is so therapeutic, so spiritual, it changes your perspective on life and nature walks have become an important fix for me.

Mount Suswa’s inner crater – 2,356m (7,730 ft) Pic: danielmountsuswa.wordpress

Only 50 km from Nairobi, Mt Suswa is often described as the best day trip from Kenya’s capital and comprises a 12 km across double crater system, a vast network of obsidian caves and great hiking opportunities. Located very close to Mt Longonot

Map – Suswa location

Entrance to one of the caves. Pic: Peter Chonka

View from inside the cave. Pic: jambonairobi.co.ke

Mount Suswa has an extensive network of easily accessible lava caves. This lava tube cave system comprises more than 70 collapsed holes and is considered to be the world’s most complex braided system of lava tubes. Their ecological impact on the caves has been the source of many studies and scientific papers. The entrances to the caves are invariably formed by collapse Holes where the roof of the tube has fallen in. None of the caves are too long or complex and no special equipment or knowledge is required to tackle the systems, just ample flash lights and a dust mask

Exploring one of the caves. Pic: Peter Chonka

They comprise of lava tube systems, formed in a period of recent volcanic activity, and are totally different from limestone caves. Relatively rare, they are believed to have been formed when molten lava, flowed down a slope at an angle.

Like a natural work of art! Pic: Peter Chonka

The outer layers cool and solidify, but the core continues to flow, and in some cases, evacuates itself completely to leave behind an empty tube. Numerous unusual features can be found and include lava ropes, benches, land a variety of secondary formations. Many of these formations are quite fragile and great care must be taken not to touch them.

Lava stalactites. Pic: underatree.overblog

Lava stalactites. Pic: Peter Chonka

One interesting location in the caves is the Baboons’ parliament where a large troop of Baboons take shelter at night from their predators. The Baboon troops’ arrival in the evening coincides with the departure of the local bat colonies, creating two way traffic. It is said that if you peer down the opening in the roof early in the morning, you will find the troop’s leader perched on a pile of rocks at the centre of the chamber, seemingly addressing the rest of the troop perched on ledges high up the walls of the cave. It was featured in a BBC documentary

Watch clip here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00639mr These rare volcanic lava caves are home to large populations of bats that are believed to travel up to 30km in search of food at night before retreating to the caves in the morning. In the day, these bat colonies can be seen hanging from the roofs of the caves.

Bat colonies at Suswa Caves. Pic: jambonairobi.co.ke

Bats hanging above. Pic: underatree.overblog

Skeleton of a bat still hangs from the ceiling. Pic: underatree.overblog

The gentle sloping sides of the outer flanks and most of the surrounding thousands of hectares is home to the Maasai, and we visited their manyatta homestead to find the village had gathered for a circumcision celebration

Celebrations underway

Maasai morans in high jump dance. They compete to see who can jump higher

Just hanging out

A bit of an awkward moment, may be just for me, finding warriors braiding each others hair!

They really took to my nephew David

If you would like to book an excursion at Suswa, whether to explore the caves or hike, you can contact Joseph the guide who took the Travel Diaries crew around – Call him on 0728 023 122 Definitely recommend it!

WE CELEBRATE KENYA’S HEROES OF NATURE! #ExploreKenya

Kenya celebrates Mashujaa (Heroes) day every 20th of October. Travel Diaries decided to pay tribute to 3 spots that may be very different in landscape, history and attractions but remind us how truly remarkable Kenya is. God Bless our natural and wild heroes! And we have thousands of travelers on Instagram who agree with us! So we decided to share a few instagram pictures as well. Follow us on Instagram @traveldiarieskenya and when you travel Kenya, tag us so we can keep track of your experiences and share them with the world! Enjoy and happy Mashujaa day everyone!

KENYAS NATURAL HEROES 

1. KORA NATIONAL PARK

Aerial view of Kora National Park via http://www.tusk.org

Once considered a forgotten part of Kenya, Kora National Park owes a large part of its popularity to George Adamson. George, with help from Tony Fitzjohn, spent 18 years rehabilitating lion and leopard in Kora. Their work encompassed the organization and management of the conservation area and establishment of Kora as a National Park in 1990. Meru National Park and Kora National Park are now linked by a bridge which has been built over the Tana River. Kora is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service

Kora National park via http://www.tusk.org

Once the forgotten land of Kenya Kora via http://www.tusk.org

@traveldiarieskenya adamsons bridge connecting meru national park to its sister park kora national park, over the tana river #Traveldiaries

In 1989, at the age of 83, Adamson was murdered by Somali poachers. His base, Kampi ya Simba (“Camp of the Lions”), was then burnt down and the project closed. Its now been restored and open to the public

@traveldiarieskenya the camp which was torched by the bandits after the murder of George Adamson by poachers has been rebuilt to how it was before Georges’ killing #Traveldiaries

@traveldiarieskenya The mess at kambi ya simba,in Kora national park where George Adamson lived with his lions. pictures of George Adamson displayed in the mess #Traveldiaries

@traveldiarieskenya A snap shot of baba ya samba hangs at the camp #Traveldiaries

@traveldiarieskenya Kora’s very own Moran strikes a pose. Kora #Traveldiaries

@kimkevy Off to the loo #KoraNationalPark #Traveldiaries

@ollysuzi Camels at Kora National park #Traveldiaries

@patrickkiilu George Adamson. Remembering the man who lived with Lions #BornFree #Traveldiaries

As much as Joy and George Adamson had an incredible rapport with lions and leopards, the Adamsons’ relationship was explosive – Joy was known as the “man-eater of Meru” for her quick temper and sexual adventures – and the couple separated (although were never divorced) even before the film “Born Free” was released. Joy, who died in 1980, moved on to the nearby Shaba game reserve, where she worked with leopards, and George moved to Kora. Tony Fitzjohn joined him there in 1971.

Born free actors Virginia Mckenna and Bill Travers filming the film ‘Born Free’

@traveldiarieskenya George and his English Assistant Tony at Kora #Traveldiaries

Tony Fitzjohn at Kora National Park in Kenya

Christian a lion was bought from Harrods in 1969 by two young Australians, John Rendall and Anthony “Ace” Bourke, the animal had been raised as a pet. Incredibly, when Rendall and Bourke travelled to Kora to visit Christian a year later, the lion remembered them and there is video footage of him wrapping his front legs around their shoulders and nuzzling their faces. (The clip became a viral hit on YouTube.) HOW TO GET TO KORA

• Roads: Kora is 280 km to the north-east of Nairobi. Access is via Thika to Mwingi then north-east through Kyuso village. A bridge across the Tana River joins the park with Meru National Park. The park has a road network.
• Airstrips: There is an airstrip that is used for reserve’s administration. With another airstrip about 10km away on the eastern side.

ACTIVITIES
: Game viewing, rock climbing, fishing in River Tana.

@kimkevy George Adamsons grave at Kora #Traveldiaries

2. MT KENYA NATIONAL PARK

At 5,199 m, Mount Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa. There are 12 remnant glaciers on the mountain and four secondary peaks that sit at the head of the glacial valleys. With rugged glacier-clad summits and forested slopes, Mount Kenya is one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa.

@africanascents Fly fishing on Mt Kenya tarns #Traveldiaries

@nikroshania Glacial lake swimming, 3 degrees celcius at 4600m – Mt Kenya #Traveldiaries

@kimani_w Beautiful and peaceful up on Mount Kenya #Traveldiaries

@14jameshiggs Mt Kenya experience #Traveldiaries

@captracer Mt Kenya – clear skies #Traveldiaries

The main summits are the twins Batian and Nelion, and these can only be reached by means of technical climbing via a variety of rock or ice routes. The third highest peak, Point Lenana, is a popular route for most groups. Point John and some of the other peaks also offer good rock climbing routes.

@concreteworldclothing Cliff hanging – Mt Kenya #Traveldiaries

@binksy_j fly fishing at Lake Rutundu #MtKenya #Traveldiaries

@trendyb254 #MtKenya one thing I learned from the hike is it might look near but it is far, never give up, put your best foot forward. It might take seconds minutes, hours, days, months, years but just make an effort of accomplishing what you started #Traveldiaries

@martinindiatsi Mt Kenya #picoftheday #Traveldiaries

@harty_boi Mt Kenya expedition #Traveldiaries

@garethhnash The hike down from Point Lenana, through Shiptons camp and all the way to camp Moses, was hands down the most beautiful and most difficult hike of my life. After 11 hours I was absolutely finished #TravelDiaries

Mount Kenya is also regarded as a holy mountain by the Kikuyu and Meru living adjacent to it. They use the mountain for traditional rituals based on the belief that their traditional God Ngai and his wife Mumbi live on the peak of the mountain.

3. LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK

VIEW OF LAKE NAKURU

In maasai Nakuru means “Dust or Dusty Place”. Lake Nakuru National Park was established in 1961. It started off small, only encompassing the famous lake and its surroundings. Now it has been extended to include a large part of the savannahs. It can be visited easily from Nairobi or more likely as part of a circuit taking in the Masai Mara, Mount Kenya and to Samburu.

@mgtenazas Lake Nakuru, an alkaline lake elevated at 1754m above sea level that is also famous for its abundance of flamingo and white rhino. #Traveldiaries

@tinaleeh Big cats forever #LakeNakuru #Traveldiaries

@sadiaani traveling around Kenya and enjoying the safaris breathtaking view #LakeNakuru #Traveldiaries

@gokokoc Hippos Lake Nakuru #Traveldiaries

@traveldiarieskenya repost @benacl Kenya – Lake Nakuru #Gopro #Traveldiaries

@a2safaris a dazzle of Zebra amidst a flock of Flamingo #LakeNakuru #Traveldiaries

The lake is world famous as the location of the greatest bird spectacle on earth – pink flamingoes whose numbers are legion, often more than a million maybe two. The park was recently enlarged partly to provide a sanctuary for the black rhino. This undertaking has necessitated a fence – to keep out poachers rather than to restrict the movement of wildlife thanks to KWS

@yassinjuma Lake Nakuru #Flamingoes #Traveldiaries

@lowisleakey Flamingoes at dawn #LakeNakuru #Traveldiaries

@avem5562 Lake Nakuru Kenya #Traveldiaries

@carinsa Jambo! Hello Rhino! Hello flamingo! #Traveldiaries

Sunrise over Lake Nakuru. Pic: unknown

Explore, Discover beautiful Kenya! #Traveldiaries  Follow us on Instagram @traveldiarieskenya and when you travel Kenya, tag us so we can keep track of your experiences and share them with the world!

THE BEST OF LAIKIPIA, KENYA

 

MY TOP SPOTS IN KENYA – EVE D’SOUZA

Hi. My name is Eve D’Souza…and i’m a travel addict.

My business partner Lucy Mwangi and i created and filmed ‘Travel Diaries Kenya’ for TV back in 2011, strongly believing there was an interest and passion for domestic tourism in Kenya. Compiling my Top 12 spots was so difficult, as over the past 3 seasons of the show, i’ve discovered over 30 incredible holiday spots in the country i absolutely fell in love with. I hope the following will give you some inspiration to explore and discover Kenya with me…

12. KILIFI

I love beach holidays that include beautiful white sandy beaches that you can actually enjoy! No beach boys harassing you or tons of tourists stealing every shady spot. Its quiet and undiscovered – for now that is! The water sports in the creek were also a major highlight! First time I’ve ever stayed in a house floating on the water! Made me feel like a kid again!

The Floating house Kilifi – great holiday accommodation for 6!

Bofa Beach Kilifi. Pic: thomson.co.uk

Mnarani club in Kilifi. Pic: sleepout.com

Amazing water sport experiences await in Kilifi creek!

Vew of the Kilifi bridge from the floating house early morning

Highlights: Staying at the Floating house, Bofa beach, water ski epic fails, abseiling off a catamaran, Dhow sundowners

Filmed for TV: Kilifi floating house

11. MT NYIRU

It was the first time the Travel Diaries crew got into lots of car trouble. Got stuck in a ditch on the 1st day and had a hole in the petrol tank leaving Baragoi on the way back… plus a puncture an hour and a half from Nairobi! At some point we actually got separated in the middle of Baragoi, as two of us went off by foot to try find help! But what an adventure!! Desert Rose is built on the slopes of Mt Nyiru, and it was the most spiritual experience I’ve ever had in my life

Largest number of break downs we’ve ever had on a road trip so far

Traditional dancers along the slope of Mt Nyiru, you can make out the peak on the top right

Enjoying lunch under the canopy of trees while the dancers entertained the guests

Filming Travel Diaries

A very spiritual experience at Desert Rose

Highlights: Surviving a long tough road trip, driving through Baragoi, amazing view of Mt Nyiru at Desert Rose, enjoying the cultural scenes

Filmed for TV: Desert Rose

10. MARALAL

If you plan to visit Marlal, I recommend you do during the annual Maralal International Camel Derby. Both competitors and visitors to Maralal join in the 3 day festivities. The atmosphere in town on race day was electric and very carnival style!

The Annual International Camel Derby in Maralal

There were an impressive number of women competing last year!

I was quite amused with the photo booths haha!!

Samburu woman teaching me how to have more attitude! 🙂

Kenyatta House in Maralal where Jomo Kenyatta was detained in 1961 and negotiated our independence. Also where Uhuru Kenyatta was conceived

Jomo Kenyattas bedroom left untouched from 1961. Where Uhuru Kenyatta was conceived and the book ‘Facing Mt Kenya’ completed in Maralal

Kenyatta’s kitchen popular in Govt houses in the 60’s – water heats up automatically whilst you cook with firewood

Malaso valley, Maralal

Highlights: The Camel derby action, visit of the historic Kenyatta house, taking in the view of Malaso valley

9. WATAMU

One of my favourite places if you like to laze by the sea during the day and party at night! Watamu is just beautiful. Also the best place for spotting dolphins and turtles (breeding ground)

Watamu has some of the best beaches in Kenya. Pic: Ora resort

Watamu has some of the best beaches in Kenya. Pic: Garoda Resort

Kitesurfing also popular in Watamu. Pic: Medina Palms

Enjoying cooling off in the pool

Sea turtles help to stabilise the ecosystem to which they are a part by creating and protecting what hundreds of thousands of visitors come to see every year at Kenya’s marine parks
Pic: nomad.sleepout.com

Watamu Marine Park. You can also hand feed the pretty little fish! Its so much fun! Pic: ajtoursandsafaris.com

Moray Eels. Pic: watamu.biz

Pic: watamu.biz

The park is very rich in marine life. Pic: watamu.biz

Green turtles are protected in the marine park. Pic: watamu.biz

Watamus a great place to spot dolphins. They’re quite friendly too! Pic: ajtoursandsafaris.com

Dolphins showing off in Watamu! Pic: ndegenews.com

Highlights: Sand bank when the tide is out, its blinding white sand is stunning! Gorgeous beaches. Snorkeling in the Watamu marine park. Watching the Kite surfers. Partying at “Come back Club”

Filmed for TV: Garoda Resort, Ora Resort, Watamu Treehouse, Medina Palms, Turtle bay resort, Lonno Lodge

8. KAKAMEGA FOREST

I was so sure I’d come face to face with a big angry snake. It was my biggest fear the entire drive to Kakamega. I guess they were more afraid of me, as I didn’t actually see any, but had the most amazing time hiking around the forest.

Highlights: Rich foliage, massive trees and thick undergrowth, waterfall, birds, butterflies, colobus monkeys and other primate species, liana climbers

Pics: KWS, Accommodation KWS Bandas

7. SHABA

I watched “Born free” over and over again before going to Shaba. There is definitely the spirit of Elsa and the Adamsons still living strong in Shaba. I got to also stay at exact the spot Joy Adamson lived at for many years (Joys Camp) and learn more about her adventurous life. Its the same place she was later murdered on the 3rd of January 1980, by a worker she had fired.

Shaba National Reserve, Samburu

In Shaba you can still find the abandoned film base, for the George Adamson movie ‘Walk with Lions’. Climbing up the Directors tower

Joy Adamson’s original driving licence

Cooling off from the Shaba heat

Shaba gorge

In Born free land – Shaba game reserve

Highlights: Shaba gorge, crocodiles along Ewaso Nyiro river, history about the work and life of Joy and George Adamson, sundowners

Filmed for TV: Sarova Shaba Game lodge, Joys Camp

6. LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY

You couldn’t ask for anything more picture perfect! It was unbelievable! Perfect sunrise, followed by an immediate spotting of cheetahs, black and white rhino as well as lions!

Lewa Downs, Kenya. Pic: theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk

Game drive in Lewa Pic: Sirikoi

Enjoy some of the best game drives in Kenya! Pic: africaexclusivesafaris.com

Horseback safari Pic: theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk

Game drive out in the conservancy. Pic: Sirikoi.com

Gorgeous landscape in Lewa. Pic: mangoafricansafaris.com

Horseback safari in Lewa. Pic: mangoafricansafaris.com

Highlights: Game viewing is spectacular, sight of Mt Kenya in the distance

Filmed for TV: Sirikoi Lodge

5. LAMU

I especially enjoyed my one week stay as we were filming the annual Lamu cultural festival at the same time.

Lamu has retained its charm and character built over centuries and is celebrated on the world heritage list as the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa.

Aerial view, Lamu Pic: forodhanihouse.com

Manda island. Pic: themajlisresorts.com

Lamu has some of the best beaches in Kenya. Pic: forodhanihouse.com

Shimmering sea at Shella, Lamu. Pic: forodhanihouse.com

Pic: the Majilis

Lamu is rich in swahili culture. Pic: themajlisresorts.com

Kitesurfing in Lamu. Pic: themajlisresorts.com

View from The Majilis Pic: themajlisresorts.com

Dhow at sunset

Highlights: Cultural festival, cuisine, beaches, sunrises and sunsets are jaw dropping!!

Filmed for TV: Kipungani Explorer, Kijani house, Forodhani house and The Majilis Resort

4. LAIKIPIA

The first time I ever rode a horse was filming Travel Diaries in laikipia, and it was to go out in the wild for a short safari! There is something very special about Laikipia. I’ve visited 3 times and each time was a very different and unique experience.

Driving around Laikipia

Pride rock at Borana Laikipia, which inspired the creators of Lion King

Waterfall at Ngare Ndare forest Borana, Laikipia

Nature walk at Borana Laikipia

Filming at Borana Laikipia

Filming our quad bike safari for Travel Diaries Kenya

Filming our visit to the maasai village for Travel Diaries Kenya

Kimunya, filming for Travel Diaries Kenya.

The view at Ol lentille, lakipia.

Highlights: Climbing Lentille point, quad bike safari, horseback safari, Nature walk at Borana, Ngare Ndare forest

Filmed for TV: Ol lentille, Borana lodge, Loisaba

3. TURKANA

I cant stress enough how life changing this experience was for me! It took us one and a half days to get there by road from Nairobi and I loved every second! We took the route to Eliye springs Lodge in Turkana (Kitale – Kapenguria – Lodwar – Eliye) Thankfully we experienced no breakdowns on this trip and no issues with security. An incredible beach holiday!

Eliye airstrip

Eliye springs beach

Eliye springs restaurant

Boma style accommodation

Camping facilities as well

Boat ride on Lake Turkana

Enjoying a boat ride on Lake Turkana

Visiting the Turkana village, filming Travel Diaries Kenya

Visiting the Turkana village, filming Travel Diaries Kenya

Sunset at Turkana

Turkana dancers

Highlights: The change in landscape, the beach, hike at Central island, visit of Turkana manyatta, scenic shots

Filmed for TV: Eliye Springs Camp and Lodge, Turkana

2. THE MAASAI MARA

I have heard a few people say maasai mara is overrated, and its always people who have never actually been to the mara! Its anything but! Trust me, the maasai mara is all its hyped up to be. The best place in Kenya to see Lions, chances are extremely high. First time I got to see the Big 5 in one game drive!

Wearing the Lions mane at a maasai village in the maasai mara. Women are typically never allowed to wear the mane…meant for warriors

Wildebeest migration Pic: trueafrica.com

Wildebeest migration

While filming Travel Diaries Kenya – hot air balloon safari

Male lion bringing in the food

Very common in the maasai mara to have cheetahs jump on top of the safari cars! Pic: ghorayebtravel.net

Highlights: Game drives, Hot air ballon safari, wildebeest migration, visit of maasai villages, The Big 5 (Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino and Buffalo)

Filmed for TV: Entim camp, Ilkeliani camp

1. SAMBURU

There’s something raw and untouched about this place. I feel a sense of inner peace when I’m in Samburu. It’s also astoundingly beautiful! Its the wild beauty of Kenya’s outback. Here I found open spaces, serenity and some of the best opportunities for game safaris as well as other outdoor activities. Look out for the Samburu Special 5 (Gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryz and Somali Ostrich)

Samburu land!

Out in Samburu

Filming Travel Diaries Kenya. Our bush breakfast along Ewaso Nyiro river

Out on my rooms deck, filming Travel Diaries Kenya

Taking in the view by the pool

Resting on the rocks on my rooms outside deck

A massage with a view! Samburu

Lions sleeping under the shade

Highlights: The views staying at Saasab camp and Saruni. Bush breakfast along the Ewaso Nyiro river, the special 5 visit of samburu village

Filmed for TV: Saasab, Saruni Samburu

DID YOU KNOW? Interesting facts linked to Kenya

1. Kenya’s Great Rift Valley was formed around 20 million years ago, by the movement of the earth’s crust. In the past, it was seen as part of a “Great Rift Valley” that ran from Madagascar to Syria. The Rift is visible from space and looks like two parallel lines running down Africa. Its one of the earth’s great geographical features.

Kenya’s Great Rift Valley

2. The El Molo people are a nearly extinct tribe with a population of less than 300 in Kenya. They are the most skilled fishermen amongst the mostly semi nomadic pastoral tribes along Lake Turkana, Loiyangalani. Their dwellings resemble igloos, built from what scrub vegetation the volcanic wasteland has to offer.

El Molo fisherman

The El Molo ‘igloo’ like homes

Working hard breaking shore stones to build a fish storage house in their village

El Molo people drink water directly from Lake Turkana, which causes them many medical problems

3. Despite their size, Elephants are able to walk silently through the bush because they walk on the tips of their toes – which is actually a thick cushion made up of elastic tissue.

Elephants sometimes flap their ears to cool down their body temperature

4. Traditionally the maasai people of Kenya do not bury their dead. Burials are believed to harm the soil and is reserved only for a few chiefs. Most dead bodies are simply left outside for scavengers.

Maasai

5. Two time Olympic gold medalist Kipchoge Keino was initially a police officer and guarded Jomo Kenyatta during his detention in Maralal before Kenyas independence. Growing up, Kip ran 16 miles every single day barefoot just to get to school – he started this routine at the age of 5 years. At 12 years, he had to climb up a tree and tie himself to it overnight, so as to escape a cheetah!

Kipchoge Keino

6. Lions will sleep up to 20 hours a day. Females do almost all of the hunting. Historically, in addition to Africa, lions were found in Greece through the Middle East to northern India.

7. Maasai elders often drink cattle blood to alleviate intoxication or hangovers after a night of drinking alcohol.

Hangover cure anyone?

8. Paleontologists believe people may first have inhabited Kenya about 2 million years ago.

9. Kenyans claim Kituluni hill in Machakos District is the only place in Kenya where a car can roll uphill, unaided. People say that If you switch off the car and park it at the side of the road, it immediately begins to move up the hill at a speed of approximately 5kph. This phenomenon has been explained as a gravity or magnetic hill – a place where a slight downhill slope appears to be an uphill slope due to the layout of the surrounding land, creating the optical illusion that water flows uphill or a car left out of gear will roll uphill, among others.

Kituluni Hill

10. Central Island, also known as Crocodile Island, is a volcanic island located in the middle of Lake Turkana in Kenya. It is also the location of Central Island National Park, which is governed by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

It is composed of more than a dozen craters and cones, three of which are filled by small lakes. The 3 major crater lakes are filled with Crocodile, Tilapia and Flamingo. You can hike around the rim of the crater

Crocodile lake, filming Travel Diaries

Tilapia lake – safari254.com

Flamingo lake

11. Nakuru actually had a Motor Race Track back in the day! A motor racing track operated in the Lake View Estate area from 1956 until the mid 1980’s in Kenya

Nakuru Race Track

Go karting in Nakuru

12. Giant crocodile fossils have been discovered in Kenya, dating from the Mesozoic Era, over 200 million years ago. The biggest known crocodile has been found—and the 27-foot-long (8.3-meter-long) predator likely swallowed early humans whole, a new study says. Crocodylus thorbjarnarsoni lurked in deep lakes near present-day Lake Turkana between about two and four million years ago.

Replica of Crocodile fossil.

Shores of Lake Turkana – safari254.com

Shores of Lake Turkana Northern Kenya – safari254.com