Safaris by design
EAST AFRICA: THE FULL EXPERIENCE!
SCOTTO & VESSA
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
Day(s)
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USD $ 16,175 / pps*
*pps=per person sharing / Minimum of 2 pax traveling
WHY YOU'D LOVE IT!
* Uncover the unparalleled sights of Tanazania’s extraordinary safari terrain, the sights and sounds of the wonderfully wild and atmospheric Nyerere National Park!
* Next up, the pristine and untouched Ruaha National Park, featuring the Great Ruaha River with its deep gorges, swirling rapids and excellent fishing. With over 10,000 elephant, 30,000 buffalo, 20,000 zebra and huge populations of lion and leopard (not to mention more than 400 bird species).Ruaha is a wildlife enthusiasts paradise.
* Experience the Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau where the rhythmic sway of the camel’s stride leads you through a mesmerizing wilderness, offering an intimate and unforgettable connection with the land and its remarkable inhabitants.Boasting one of the biggest and most diverse mammal populations in Kenya, as well as a wealth of endangered species including increasing populations of wild dogs, roughly half of Kenya’s 600 black rhinos, and half of the world’s Grevy’s zebras.
* Travel to the world famous Masai Mara, and the exclusive Naboisho Conservancy! The Mara Naboisho Conservancy in southwest Kenya is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts – cheetahs, elephants and giraffes and home to one of the highest concentrations of lions in the world!
A once in a lifetime, custom African safari adventure where you will enjoy astonishing wildlife, luxury accommodation and extraordinary experiences!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | Kenya
Nairobi arrival
◽️ DAY 2-5 | Tanzania
Nyerere National Park
◽️ DAY 6-8 | Tanzania
Ruaha National Park
◽️ DAY 9 | Kenya
Nairobi overnight
◽️ DAY 10-11 | Kenya
Laikipia Plateau
◽️ DAY 12-14 | Tanzanaia
Naboisho Conservancy
◽️ DAY 15 | Return
Departure
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | July 30, 2024
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1 | July 31, 2024
NAIROBI (Kenya)
Nairobi overnight
📍 Emara Ole Sernini
EMARA OLE SERINI
Hotel Overview
Located just off Mombasa road Ole-Sereni is the only hotel bordering a National Game Park. The title of the hotel is taken from the Maasai name for the area meaning 'place of tranquillity'. Ole-Sereni captures the essence of Nairobi, which is the only city in the world that boasts a natural game park within its precincts. The hotel offers its guests views of animals in their natural surroundings at the waterhole in the park from the restaurants, bar, swimming pool and other parts of the hotel.
As 'The City Hotel by the Game Park' Ole-Sereni combines the best features of a modern City Hotel and a traditional wildlife lodge where guests can enjoy nature's tranquillity from a very close range. Ole-Sereni is strategically positioned close to the Airport and the city centre, offering world-class facilities and personalized services to business as well as leisure travellers.
The hotel also enjoys proximity to the central business district, international organizations, financial institutions, government offices and the industrial areas of Nairobi.
Activities: Nairobi
Optional activities available dependent on arrival time - please see your safari itinerary for tours booked.
- Visit the Karen Blixen "Out of Africa" Museum
- Next stop - the Giraffe sanctuary
- Visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
Rich in culture and history - gate way to some of the most beautiful stretches of wilderness in the world!
B&B
HOTEL
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-5 | August 1-4, 2024
NYERERE NP
Safari days!
📍 Selous Impala Camp
NYERERE NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering 55,000 square kilometers. It is home to some of Africa's most sought-after game, including Elephant, Lion, Wild Dog, Leopard, Buffalo, Hippo, Crocodile, and herds of plains game, but it is one of the continent's least visited great game sanctuaries.
The Rufiji River teems with wildlife: Jurassic-size crocs bask on sunny sandbanks, elephants browse on swampy islands, storks and spoonbills patrol the shallows, and exposed mud banks are covered in crimson clouds of carmine bee-eaters. with a chance to spot African Wild Dogs as one of the rare species in the area and other big cats.
The main wildlife-viewing circuit follows a string of five connected lakes fed by the Rufiji River. The Rufiji is one of Africa's great rivers, with palm fringed channels and swampy islets.
The Rufiji River is teeming with hippo and crocodile, and the bird life is fantastic. Lion sightings are very common as the opportunistic creatures tend to laze around the lakes waiting for animals coming to drink.Game drives are most rewarding for predator sightings, but boat and foot safaris add a different dimension to your stay. One of the attractions of the park is the chance to encounter wild dog.
Walking safari in the wilderness ...!
Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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SELOUS IMPALA CAMP
Camp Overview
The camp is set among Borassus palms and tamarind trees on the banks of the Rufiji River. In the center of camp, a large,relaxed, open-plan area on wooden decking, complete with a well-stocked bar.
The dining room and veranda in the main area are filled with lounge chairs and sofas, making a great space to relax as you flick through the wildlife books provided or watch wildlife by the river with a cool drink in hand.The local African art and décor create an authentic, homely environment, while the sheltered swimming pool nearby is the perfect place for cooling down in during the heat of the day.
With no fences, game is free to wander through the camp. Guests are escorted to and from their tents in the evenings by Maasai warriors, just in case any of the animals are a little too inquisitive.
* Arrive at Selous . Airstrip pick up.Depending on your time of arrival, go on a short game drive or you can spend this day relaxing in your camp and preparing upcoming game drive and walking safari inside the park, accompanied by local Masai warrior, armed ranger, professional walking guide, and your safari guide.
*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 6-8 | August 5-7, 2024
RUAHA NP
Safari days!
📍 Kigelia Camp
RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering 55,000 square kilometers. It is home to some of Africa's most sought-after game, including Elephant, Lion, Wild Dog, Leopard, Buffalo, Hippo, Crocodile, and herds of plains game, but it is one of the continent's least visited great game sanctuaries.
The Rufiji River teems with wildlife: Jurassic-size crocs bask on sunny sandbanks, elephants browse on swampy islands, storks and spoonbills patrol the shallows, and exposed mud banks are covered in crimson clouds of carmine bee-eaters. with a chance to spot African Wild Dogs as one of the rare species in the area and other big cats.
The main wildlife-viewing circuit follows a string of five connected lakes fed by the Rufiji River. The Rufiji is one of Africa's great rivers, with palm fringed channels and swampy islets.
The Rufiji River is teeming with hippo and crocodile, and the bird life is fantastic. Lion sightings are very common as the opportunistic creatures tend to laze around the lakes waiting for animals coming to drink.Game drives are most rewarding for predator sightings, but boat and foot safaris add a different dimension to your stay. One of the attractions of the park is the chance to encounter wild dog.
Walking safari in the wilderness ...!
Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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KIGELIA CAMP
Camp Overview
Also known as Tanzania's best-kept secret, Ruaha National Park delivers one of the most rewarding and authentic wildlife experiences in Tanzania. The name of the park is derived from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its South-Eastern margin and is the focus for game-viewing and is know for it's off-the-beaten-track adventure!
Location, location, location! Kigelia Ruaha is where you go when your soul seeks the humbling solitude of giant baobabs, the exhiliration of encountering Africa's big cats or great herds of elephant; where the focus is on experiencing nature and not the gold taps, and where you can feel at home while simultaneously enjoying the care of a dedicated team.
The camp itself has just six airy tents set beneath the boughs of the Sausage Tree (Kigelia Africana) after which it was named. It has a charm and simplicity which, for us, means that it highlights the surrounding landscape rather than detracts from it. Falling asleep under canvas to the calls of leopard, and waking in the dappled light of the sun as it peers through the bush is simply magic.
ACTIVITIES
Bird watching, walking safaris and game drives.
Travel time to Ruaha is about 6 hours drive.Depending on your time of arrival, go on a short game drive or you can spend this day relaxing. Each day is dedicated to morning walking safari, and afternoon game drives, returning to camp for meals.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 9 | August 8, 2024
NAIROBI (Kenya)
Nairobi overnight
📍 Emara Ole Sernini
EMARA OLE SERINI
Hotel Overview
Located just off Mombasa road Ole-Sereni is the only hotel bordering a National Game Park. The title of the hotel is taken from the Maasai name for the area meaning 'place of tranquillity'. Ole-Sereni captures the essence of Nairobi, which is the only city in the world that boasts a natural game park within its precincts. The hotel offers its guests views of animals in their natural surroundings at the waterhole in the park from the restaurants, bar, swimming pool and other parts of the hotel.
As 'The City Hotel by the Game Park' Ole-Sereni combines the best features of a modern City Hotel and a traditional wildlife lodge where guests can enjoy nature's tranquillity from a very close range. Ole-Sereni is strategically positioned close to the Airport and the city centre, offering world-class facilities and personalized services to business as well as leisure travellers.
The hotel also enjoys proximity to the central business district, international organizations, financial institutions, government offices and the industrial areas of Nairobi.
Activities: Nairobi
Optional activities available dependent on arrival time - please see your safari itinerary for tours booked.
- Visit the Karen Blixen "Out of Africa" Museum
- Next stop - the Giraffe sanctuary
- Visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
Rich in culture and history - gate way to some of the most beautiful stretches of wilderness in the world!
B&B
HOTEL
OVERNIGHT
DAY 10-11 | August 9-10, 2024
LAIKIPIA PLATEAU
Camel Safari
📍 Tumaren Camp
LAIKIPIA PLATEAU
Area Overview
Arrive at the Laikipia Plateau: home of the camel-back safaris! Grandly and gorgeously lifted above the equator to an average altitude of 6,500 feet. The Laikipia is graced with views of lordly Mount Kenya, the densely green northern Plateau, the remote Northern Frontier District, and on to infinity. Home to some of East Africa’s most endangered species: black rhinos, spotted hyena, Grevy's zebra and and wild dogs.
The Laikipia Plateau is an undiscovered ecosystem of wilderness terrain that covers over two million acres and is home to indigenous Samburu, Kikuyu and Boran tribes.Steeped in history from the colonial days in Kenya, this is a significant natural area from a safari and conservation perspective.
The unique and varied habitats here create stunningly scenic landscapes, from arid plains to icy mountains and sweeping hills, making it an excellent choice for the discerning safari enthusiast looking for something authentic, away from the tourist trails. It is estimated that 10% of Kenya’s black rhino community are found here.
Camel Safari
Activities are focus on exploring the area on foot, accompanied by a Samburu guide and camels. This is a wonderful way to explore areas far from the beaten track, away from roads and vehicles, and take in the wide-open spaces that Laikipia is famed for.
TUMAREN CAMP
Camp Overview
Situated on the scenic plains of eastern Laikipia Plateau,, the camp is the perfect base from which to explore the area on foot. With spacious tents and comfortable furnishings, the camp has both riding camels and land cruisers available for you to decide what kind of safari activities you want to do each morning and afternoon. This is a permanent base from which to explore by foot or a camel-supported mobile walking safari exploration.
The camp site is equipped with 4 spacious luxury sleeping tents, solar lighting and running water. Each of the tents can accommodate up to 4 people, and are therefore suited to families of 4, but can also be kept as double or twin bedrooms. All tents on the campsite are equipped with private toilet and shower facilities.
ACTIVITIES
Camp guests have the benefit of Samburu guided walks, game drives, mountain bikes, and camel rides at their disposal, as well as a permanent spot to rest their feet for afternoon tea and sun downers.
Activities are focus on exploring the area on foot, accompanied by a Samburu guide and camels. This is a wonderful way to explore areas far from the beaten track, away from roads and vehicles, and take in the wide-open spaces that Laikipia is famed for.
Each day on a walking safari is different from the next. Away from roads and vehicles, guests have a unique opportunity to take in the wide-open spaces and wildlife that Laikipia is famed for, especially the heavy populations of eland, steinbuck, giraffe, Gravy's Zebra, and elephant. Lucky visitors may even see spot a few local lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
CAMEL SAFARI
DAY 12-14 | August 11-13, 2024
NABOISHO CONSERVANCY
Great Migration Safari days
📍 Eagle View Camp
NABOISHO
Area Overview
Named "Mara Naboisho," which means 'coming together' in Maasai, this is the second largest conservancy in Masai Mara.The conservancy's scenic undulating hills, acacia woodlands along riverbanks, and expansive grasslands provide a habitat for groups of elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, and numerous lions.Naboisho Conservancy offers a unique and private safari experience.
By visiting the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, you will be playing a part in protecting the cultural heritage of the local Masai and improving their access to vital services. The conservancy is formed from parcels of land owned by over 500 Maasai landowner families. Conservancy fees are directed back to these landowners, providing them with a sustainable livelihood in return for setting aside their land as a wildlife reserve. This is a ground-breaking project of tourism benefiting conservation and community. With its high concentration of wildlife, and generous personal space and freedom on offer, visitors enjoy exceptional wildlife encounters.
Tourist numbers and vehicle access are limited, ensuring exclusivity and reducing impact, which helps maintain abundant wildlife. Unlike traditional parks, fences keep wildlife out of the conservancies. Activities like guided walks, night drives, and off-road safaris are offered, with Maasai guides educating visitors about the ecosystem, wildlife, and the cultural uses of plants. Conservancy guests can also visit the nearby national park, but not the other way around.
The Initial research indicates that Mara Naboisho Conservancy has one of the highest densities of lions in Africa. One of the major prides, comprised of 22 lions, makes its home near Encounter Mara. The conservancy also has impressive numbers of elephant, giraffe, and other plains animals, in addition to hosting endangered species like Cheetahs and some of the rarest animals in Kenya, such as Wild Dog which have been sighted recently in the conservancy.Other rare species such as Aardvark, Caracal, Serval cat, Aardwolf, and Ratel are occasionally found. Naboisho is a bird watcher’s paradise.
Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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EAGLE VIEW CAMP
Camp Overview
If you want to experience the Masai Mara without the crowds, the Mara Naboisho Conservancy is the place for you! Situated in Naboisho Conservancy a highly acclaimed model for nature conservation management, Eagle View was in 2013 nominated by National Geographic Travelers Magazine as one of the top 25 eco-lodges in the world. The only nominee in Kenya.
Eagle View, is located atop a natural hilltop overlooking a natural waterhole where the unexpected interaction between the predators and their prey provides constant entertainment to our guests. Here guests experience exclusivity, privacy, and abundant wildlife while enjoying one of the best safari experiences on the Savannah.
With 9 spacious and luxurious tented suites with en suite bathrooms and own terrace, an elevated dining area and viewing deck. Internet available in the reception area.
ACTIVITIES
Twice daily game drives & game walks~
*Morning transfer to local airstrip for your scheduled chartered flight into the heart of Mara Naboisho Conservancy. Airstrip meet & greet with road transfer to camp. Arrive for lunch, enjoy an afternoon siesta and get ready for the afternoon game viewing!
*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 15 | August 14, 2024
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
TRAVEL INFO
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
KENYA VISAS
Please refer to your safari itinerary to determine if you need to apply for a single or MULTIPLE ENTRY visa, most recently refered to as a Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
The cost for USA citizens is USD $32 (subject to change without notice).
Please refer to FAQ's on the eTA official website I will transit through Kenya to catch another flight, do I need to apply for an eTA? Passengers arriving by air who are transiting in Kenya are not required to do an eTA, provided they are not leaving airport. Does the eTA allow for multiple entries to Kenya? Your eTA is valid for a single entry into Kenya. However, there are some exceptions to this.Your eTA remains valid for more than one entry if: You visit one of the following EAC Partner States: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, AND; • You don't visit any other country, AND; • Your eTA has not expired (90 days from issuance) You can also apply for a multiple entry eTA if you are a citizen of the United States of America. Currently, the multiple entry eTA is valid for 5 years. |
Those connecting flights directly without leaving the airport don't need to apply for visas (eTA)
Single-entry visa
This is the typical visa to go to Kenya punctually for a tourist, professional or family visit. It allows to enter once in the country for a maximum duration of 90 days. The date of your trip must start no more than 3 months after the issuance of your visa. This visa will allow you re-entry into Kenya using the same visa, provided you only transit through Nairobi airport.Issued to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter Kenya and are connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.
The fee for a single entry visa isUS$ 32
Multiple entry visa:
This type of visa is granted for several trips to Kenya. It is especially suitable for those who wish to travel several times in the country over a short period of time or for tourists who wish to make excursions to neighboring countries before returning to Kenya. The fee is US$ 101.
NOTE: Should you be arriving into Kenya, proceeding into Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda, then back to Kenya, you should still apply for the Single Entry Visa - this will allow you re-entry into Kenya using the same visa, provided you only transit through Nairobi airport.Issued to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter Kenya and are connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.
LOCAL HOST:
Duma Explorer
TANZANIA VISAS
U.S. citizens visiting Tanzania for tourism are required to apply for a multiple-entry visa, which is valid for one year.
The cost for USA citizens is USD $100 (subject to change without notice).
Citizens of Canada may obtain a single-entry e-Visa (ordinary visa), valid for three months. The cost is $USD 50 (subject to change).
We recommend that you apply 60 days prior to your arrival date. Average time to receive an eVisa is approximately 10 days.
LOCAL HOST:
Northland Safaris
UGANDA VISAS
Apply for a SINGLE ENTRY visa for Uganda