AFRICA EXPLORED

The leading specialist for African safaris

KENYA

Mt KENYA National Park

Mt Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya the summit standing some 17,058 ft (5,199m) above sea level. All of the mountain above the 3,200m contour forms a national park and consists of three main zones - the rocky peak area with it mantle of glaciers and snowfields; the alpine zone with it’s distinctive giant vegetation; and the gentler lower slopes covered in mountain forest and bamboo jungle. Many rivers flow from the melting ice and snow including the Tana, Kenya’s largest and longest river.

There are some wonderful walks and beautiful vistas to be enjoyed on the slopes of the mountain. The rocky rugged peaks are only suitable for those who are more adventurous and experienced in rock climbing. The best months for climbing to the summit are January and February plus late August through September. However for the majority who wish to enjoy the wonderful views and experience the tranquillity it is worth including in your itinerary most months of the year. In the forests below the park boundary the wildlife includes elephant, buffalo, lion, the rare bongo and many other species of antelopes.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Although there is some flexibility, Lewa is officially closed to tourism during the rainy seasons, between 1st April and the 15th May and again between the 1st November and the 15th December.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is situated at 4,500 to 6,500 feet (1,400-2,000 metres) above sea level. The days are usually hot and dry and the nights quite cool. Lewa is malaria-free. Clothing should be cool for the day and warm for the evening game drives and sundowners followed by the night game drive home. A windcheater or fleece are essential, as are good walking shoes.

In addition to the game drives and walks, game viewing on horse back is available. The horses are well trained and patient, so even novice riders may experience the very close encounters that are possible only from horseback. Camel safaris are also a feature of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Lewa - Wilderness Trails

One of Kenya's original ranches, Wilderness Trails has been the Craig family home since 1924 when the Craig grandparents came from England and began raising cattle there. Each of the cottages are made from cut lava stone, strong wooden pillars and thatched roofs and each room has private en suite facilities. Horse rides and camel walks are included in the price.

There is also a central rondavel-style living room with open fire and nice comfy easy chairs.Link to the Trails web site is here

Lewa - Safari Camp

An unforgettable combination of spectacular scenery, hospitality, privacy and abundant wildlife.

Lewa Safari Camp's twelve luxury double tents are discreetly sited and comfortable, with twin beds and in suite bathrooms.

The camp's excellent chefs produce delicious, freshly cooked home fare, with emphasis on locally available ingredients. Adjoining the dining area is a warm and cozy lounge, which overlooks a floodlit waterhole where wildlife comes to drink, and in the evening guests sit around a campfire under the stars.

Horse rides and camel walks not included in the price and cost US$25 per person per ride extra.

Link to the Camp web site is here.

AFRICA EXPLORED

Thorpe Park Cottage, Thorpe Park Lane,
Thorpe Le Soken, Essex, CO16 0HN

Tel: ++ (0)1255 446250

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