Where "safari" began...

Journey... That's what the Swahili word "safari" means. And it's a journey that began in Kenya - the East African country that's the traditional home of the safari and one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in the world. From the great wildebeest migration of the Maasai Mara to the Amboseli grasslands beneath Mount Kilimanjaro, there is nowhere quite like it...

African love affairs begin in Kenya... Think Karen Blixen, Joy Adamson and Kuki Gallman and take your cue from "Out of Africa" - the movie that made the world fall in love with Africa. This vast and ancient land, home of the Great Rift Valley, great plains and great lakes whose shores early man once roamed is steeped in history, unique cultures and tribal traditions. It's also renowned for its incredible wildlife, dramatic landscapes and big skies.

MAASAI MARA

The Mara, as it is known, covers an area of some 1,500 square kilometres in the south-west of Kenya and together with the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania forms one of the most critically important eco-systems in Africa.

From July to October each year the Maasai Mara hosts the great migration which sees millions of wildebeest move into the area from the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, crossing the Mara River on their journey. This is a natural spectacle like no other and has to be seen to be believed. 

The influx of the wildebeest is accompanied by huge numbers of zebra and signals one of the biggest "wildlife shows" on the planet as Africa's predators take advantage of the sheer volume of prey species.

Besides all of the major mammal species, the Mara is also home to more than 450 species of birds and is breathtakingly beautiful, with its vast open spaces and gently rolling hills providing unique panoramas.

MOMBASA

Kenya's oldest and second-largest city and its major port, Mombasa is also known as the "white and blue" city because of its powdery white beaches and stunning, azure ocean. Its historic significance is that it was one of Africa's major trade centres hundreds of centuries before the arrival of European settlers, dating back as far as 900AD.

Quite simply, it's a cultural melting pot, with Arab influences blending with traditional African architecture. It's been ruled variously by the Portuguese, Omani and British and its Old Town still retains its ancient heritage.

The beaches to the north and south of the city have become renowned for their world-class luxury resorts that draw visitors from across the globe who come to enjoy the balmy, equatorial climate and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

AMBOSELI

Located in the south-east of Kenya, Amboseli National Park is known for its "crowning glory" - incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, across the border in neighbouring Tanzania. It's also renowned for its large elephant herds and rich variety of wildlife including giraffe, zebra, buffalo, cheetah and lion.

Observation Hill offers panoramas of the peak and the park’s plains and swamps. The name "Amboseli" comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust" and refers to the vast, seasonal alkaline Lake Amboseli that is dry and dusty for most of the year and dominates the western section of the park. During the rainy season the lake fills attracting an incredible array of birdlife.

Amboseli is made up of distinctly different habitats, from the dust-ridden bed of the lake to lush wetlands with sulphur springs, savannah grassland and woodland thickets. It's Kenya's second most popular national park after the Maasai Mara.

NAIROBI

More than just a stopover, Kenya's vibrant capital offers a unique blend of urban energy and wildlife adventures. For animal lovers, Nairobi National Park is a surprising gem – a chance to see lions, rhinos, and giraffes just outside the city limits. You can also visit Giraffe Manor to learn more about these amazing creatures and get closer to them.

If you crave some culture then you can explore the Nairobi National Museum to delve into Kenyan history and wildlife, or visit the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the author of "Out of Africa."

Bustling markets like the Maasai Market offer a chance to find handcrafted souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local scene. Don't forget to relax in Uhuru Park, a green haven in the heart of the city, or hike the scenic Ngong Hills for breathtaking views.