Resting in the magnificent Great Rift Valley and presided over by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya is characterised by hauntingly beautiful natural landscapes of forested hills, patchwork farms, wooded savanna and vast forests brimming with an extraordinary abundance of wildlife. The nation’s diverse range of traditional African cultures is influenced by over 70 unique ethnic groups from the Maasai, Samburu, Kikuyu, and Turkana tribes to the Arabs and Indians that settled on the coast. Add to this: an exquisite tropical coastline fringed with breathtaking golden sand beaches; gorgeous coral gardens providing excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities; and a slew of lively beach resorts, and it is easy to see why so many visitors flock here from around the world to experience a truly unique African adventure in one of the world’s most pristine safari destinations.
One of Africa’s finest wildlife reserves, Solio Game Reserve, also called Solio Ranch, is a privately-owned wildlife conservancy. It rests in the southern fringes of Laikipia, near the foothills of the Aberdare range. Best known as Kenya's oldest rhino sanctuary, it is renowned for its major role in the breeding and protection of black rhinos in Kenya. This family-run, private 71-square-kilometre sanctuary is also home to an array of other African wildlife including white rhinos, gazelles, oryxes, giraffes, lions, hartebeests, hyenas and buffaloes. Visitors can soak up the incredible landscapes scattered with wild marsh and yellow-fever acacia meeting wide-open skies, stay overnight in the inviting Solio Lodge and spot wildlife on a dawn game drive. Other Solio activities include hiking, horse-riding and cycling near the airstrip and in safe areas.
Resting at the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountain Range, in central Kenya's Laikipia County, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa. It is also home to some of the last remaining northern white rhino in the world. Originally a working cattle ranch in colonial Kenya and now a pioneering wildlife conservancy, Ol Pejeta works to protect wildlife and provide a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees. The Conservancy is a popular safari destination and is home to the renowned ‘Big Five’ as well as a wide selection of other African animals including zebra, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, jackal, serval, hyena, vervet monkey, and many more. Visitors can look forward to an assortment of outdoor activities such as horse rides, game walks, and nocturnal game drives.
Situated in northeastern Tanzania, the Arusha National Park is set against the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 552 square kilometre park is renowned for its other-worldly scenery and excellent choice of trekking possibilities. This beautiful area is divided into three parts: Mt. Meru, a spectacular volcanic cone; the Ngurdoto Crater, with its lost-world feel; and the multi-hued Momela Lakes. The park features a wide range of habitats that provide a home to an array of wildlife and plant species. Commonly spotted animals include Cape buffalo, giraffe, zebra, warthog, monkey, flamingo, lion and elephant.
Not to be confused with the Kenyan lake of the same name set only a hundred kilomtres away, the Tanzanian Lake Magadi is an exquisite soda lake in the Ngororongo crater, named the Swahili word for salt. This is a wonderful destination for nature photographers, a scene that changes exquisitely through the seasons, moving through lush greens into striking oranges and bright pinks. Along with the changes come captivating, changing groups of animals including rhino, eland and lion, as well as golden jackals who come to hunt the flamingos. Spread over 11.2 square kilometres, the lake cultivates a unique ecosystem with its blue-green algae, which nourishes the plants and small creatures here. The surrounding crater is filled with incredible other natural attractions and a much wider variety of wildlife.
Set in the Arusha Region, Ndutu is situated in the northern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area within the magnificent Serengeti. The surrounding landscapes are covered in sweeping grasslands which provide the perfect habitat for the migratory route for hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, antelope and zebra. Visitors can look forward to exploring the forest around Lake Ndutu, spotting an array of wildlife, and visiting the fascinating archaeological site at the Olduvai Gorge. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on a game drive to view the spectacular herds of the annual Great Migration, enjoy a scenic hot air balloon ride over the plains and take a guided tour with the local Maasai and learn about culture and traditions. Other commonly spotted species include: leopard, lion, cheetah, caracal, serval, African wildcat, and a variety of prolific birdlife.
Ikoma is situated in Tanzania, east of the Serengeti National Park, at the base of the majestic Mt. Meru, Ikoma is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater are both within easy driving distance, making Ikoma the perfect base for exploring the region. In addition to its natural wonders, Ikoma is also home to a number of great activities, including hiking, biking and bird watching. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder Ikoma is one of Tanzania's most popular tourist destinations. Other Highlights in the surrounding area include Lake Ndutu, and the Olduvai Gorge. Ikoma is also home to a number of Masai villages, where visitors can learn about the traditional culture and way of life. With its unique location and range of activities on offer, Ikoma is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of Tanzania.
