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Escape to Kenya for an exquisite African Safari

Why Kenya? They are known for their diverse wildlife and safari with breathtaking sunsets & rich cultural heritage. Kenya is located in eastern Africa and positioned on the equator. Kenya boarders 5 countries Tanzania in the South, Uganda in the West, South Sudan to the North West, Ethiopia in the North & Somalia in the East. Weather in Kenya is generally dry and sunny most of the year.


While Kenya may seem so far away, it’s approx. 9000 miles from Minnesota. We had a non-stop flight from Minneapolis to Amsterdam & then Amsterdam to Nairobi. They both were about 8 hrs.20 minutes flying time. The layover makes a big difference. I will tell you once you are there, the flying time will be well worth it.


Let’s just start what requirements you need to enter Kenya. I'll assist you with your Visa(s). I always recommend that you are registered with S.T.E.P. (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program - with US Embassy in Kenya)

· Passport - Valid for 6 months from your date of arrival.

· Visa - e-visa done online

· Yellow Fever Vaccination

· Travel Protection

Malaria is a great recommendation when traveling into small villages. Talk to your doctor.

Recommend that you always set up an appointment with your doctor for making sure you have the proper medication while traveling. May 9, 2023 Government of Kenya no longer required proof of either COVID-19 vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 PCR test to enter.


Looking at this map, you can see the destinations that we had visited on the southern parts of Kenya.


Flying in & out of Nairobi

Elephant Orphanage Nairobi

Giraffe Centre, Nairobi

Carnivore Restaurant Nairobi

Amboseli National Park - 3,100 km (151.4 square miles)

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Lake Naivasha

Maasai Mara National Reserve - 1,510 km (580 square miles)

Maasai Mara Village


A few stops along the way from Park to Reserves in small towns not shown on the map. Drive time is lengthy and recommend flying. We can arrange your flights for you.



 

While traveling in Kenya, a few tips for you.

  • No plastic bags allowed.

  • Must carry a form of ID with you at all time, passports are accepted.

  • Currency of Kenya is Shillings KES.

  • Mastercard & Visa are welcome.

  • Light colored clothes, long sleeve shirts & pants to avoid bug bites.

  • Pre-spray your clothes and boots with proper bug spray prior to packing.

  • Sport bras for the ladies for extra support.

  • Small portable flashlight

  • Binoculars with lens size 10x42

  • Camera

  • Back up chargers as you find yourself running a low battery from taking a million photos. (I couldn't help myself)

  • Pack light as you don't change clothes for two hours you have after your evening game drive.

  • Hiking boots and a 2nd pair of footwear


 

As we toured the parks, we had come across many Park Rangers. Their jobs are to protect the animals. When you are on safari, you can't disturb any animal during their natural flow of life. Therefore, you can't chase, herd them or trap any animal. The animals will always be able to move freely. If the Park Rangers see that a jeep is causing any stress or disturbing an animal, they will come ticket that driver. We had seen the Park Rangers working hard to monitor the animals. These animals are walking freely with no fencing, eating their way through the lands of beauty.


Enjoy some of the photos I've taken on this African Safari.


We can offer you a few different lodging options along with optional tours.

Imagine an early sunrise hot air balloon ride with a full bush breakfast and of course, champagne. That's just one idea but we have a lot of options for you.


Wondering at what age should you be taking your kids? Average ages 12 and up however some start at age 8. Why? During the drive you need to be quiet when around the animals. They need to able to be up early to catch the wild animals on the move. Some tours require you to be a specific age. Also they need to understand the rules of safety whether you're at your lodge or out on the game drive. Safety is #1.


 

Small group travel is perfect for safaris.

Most vehicles hold up to 6 or 7 people. So whether you're traveling with family or a group of friends, you could possibly have the vehicle to yourselves vs. sharing with strangers.

In this photo the back row seats 3, middle seats are bucket seats and no middle and the front has driver and one passenger seat.

We were all very comfortable.


Open air top & windows that open up for side views.
African Safari trip to Kenya with my friends, Teri, Jessica & Melissa.

Trust me; your vehicle will make a huge difference while on safari. I will do another blog on the different types of vehicles that we have seen.


The roads are sandy and or muddy. So much dust is in the air at all times.


Planning your safari early is important because of the size of vehicles. Many dates are sold out.


I've traveled, I've experienced it and I'm your African Safari expert.



Let's start planning your next safari. Remember Escape by Travel is here to help you discover the world, one culture at a time.



Escape by Travel ~ Penny Gellatly

218-591-3058

Penny@bookescapebytravel.com

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