KENYA
SAFARI OPERATORS
GUIDE 2012-13
SAFARI OPTIONS
For thrilling safari experienceS, Kenya offers choices galore M
any people assume that a safari experience is restricted to a 4x4 vehicle and to game viewing through an open-hatch roof. In fact, there are many different ways to see and enjoy the comprehensive range of wildlife that Kenya has to offer. Some of the many options available include an opportunity for close-up views of small or shy animals on a walking safari; or panoramic vistas of the open plains from a hot air balloon.
is from December to March when migrating birds arrive from Europe.
Photo safaris Kenya is one of the world’s best locations for wildlife photography and many companies now offer specially tailored itineraries for serious photographers. While patience and luck are required to get that perfect shot, it is also important to go with a trained guide who is familiar with the geography and
Walking
the animals. Travelling with a group of fellow enthusiasts is another key ingredient in any successful photo safari.
Various Kenyan game reserves and national parks offer scope for walking safaris and, for many people, this is the ultimate safari experience. A walking safari not only
Camel
provides opportunities for intimate encounters with
The ‘ship of the desert’ is an ideal vantage point for viewing
animals that are shy of vehicles, but also allows visitors
nature. This safari experience is most common in northern
to explore areas that vehicles cannot reach.
and central Kenya and is often accompanied by a Samburu warrior guide. The camels are used mainly to carry
Organised walking safaris are usually arranged through
camping equipment and to accompany walking safaris,
a specialist tour operator and accompanied by an armed
but they can also be ridden where the terrain allows.
guide. There are age restrictions, too. Travellers must be over 18 and in good physical health. This is especially true of the more ambitious treks in the neighbourhood of Mount Kenya, Mount Elgon and the Aberdares.
Family Introducing children to the thrill of an African safari can be great fun as well as a memorable experience. Many
Birdwatching
tour operators now offer child-friendly tours. Most
Kenya is a destination of choice for keen birdwatchers.
children and include visits to wildlife orphanages,
About 1,300 species of birds can be found in Kenya –
meeting local tribes and learning how to track animals
more than in any other African country. The Rift Valley,
– all excellent opportunities for educational enjoyment.
of the itineraries are designed to appeal to younger
in particular, has a large population of birds including raptors such as the fish eagle. The alkaline lakes support populations of flamingos and pelicans. A varied
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Golfing safaris
topography, ranging from woodland to desert and from
The diversity of Kenya’s golf courses makes it an ideal
grassland to mountains, accounts for the amazing
destination for golfing enthusiasts. Many keen players
variety of bird species. A particularly good time to visit
travel to Kenya in order to combine a golfing holiday