Kenya Specialist Jamie
I was born in Kenya and have spent years travelling around East Africa, so creating trips there feels deeply personal. It’s such a vast country with a wonderful variety of landscapes, wildlife and experiences. I’ve always loved being on safari and there’s nothing like a morning game drive in the bush watching a Kenyan sunrise surrounded by the ‘Big 5’.
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary – not just for the wildlife but for the staff who make the experience so special. I will always remember hearing the Samburu keepers singing to the elephants and calling them in for feeding time. It’s such a great conservation project and seeing elephants re-released back to their natural environment is truly touching.
Learning about the anti-poaching units at Segera safari lodge and joining their canine unit for a practice search. It was amazing to see the tireless work that goes into protecting the wildlife. I also took my husband on his first safari which was really special.
Look beyond the Great Migration. There are a number of incredible conservancies that offer equally special wildlife experiences with fewer crowds. Combine two safari locations such as Laikipia with a conservancy in the Masai Mara so you can maximise activities, wildlife (some species are only found in certain areas) and landscapes.
Spend time learning about conservation and community projects – they add a completely different dimension to a safari. Knowing that you’re positively contributing to the protection of the local wildlife makes a safari even more meaningful and nothing beats seeing the success of conservation on your game drives.
Bush dining experiences under the stars are always unforgettable. I have been lucky enough to see how creative Kenyan chefs can be when they’re in the middle of the bush! The vegetables and fresh flavours are fantastic in Kenya and lots of camps have their own herb or vegetable gardens.
I absolutely love ugali (a dough-like porridge), mandazi (similar to donuts) and samosas (a staple snack).
Lewa. It is a fantastic conservancy, but I would return every time for the amazing guiding there. Nothing beats seeing rhinos or elephants against the beautiful backdrop of Mount Kenya.
I haven’t been to Meru yet and it would be great to see a completely different landscape and explore a new National Park. I’m also keen to return to Laikipia. It’s a vast region, and I’ve only just scratched the surface so heading back there to explore more of the conservancies would give me the chance to sample even more remote and varied safari experiences.
Kenya works beautifully for both honeymoons and family adventures. My first experience was growing up in Nairobi and returning with my family so I can safely say it’s wonderful for families.
Monday – Friday: 9am to 6pm
Original Travel
111 Upper Richmond Rd
London SW15 2TL
Tel: 020 7978 7333
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
