Luxury Sands & Savannah - Ancient Egypt & Big 5 Kenya Safari

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LUXUR Y SANDS & SAVAN NAH

Ancient Egypt & Big Five Kenya Safari

WELCOME

Imagine exploring the mystical land of Egypt, where ancient wonders and awe-inspiring landscapes converge. From the magnificent pyramids of Giza to the tranquil serenity of the Nile River, this land is teeming with extraordinary wonders, both cultural and natural.

I have built a team of Journeysmiths with the ability to match your dreams and aspirations to their knowledge and experience of the world’s extraordinary places. The outcome is a holiday of a lifetime every time you travel. Our holidays go beyond “tailormade” — they are uniquely crafted and arranged and we simply adore what we do.

When you travel to Egypt, you won't merely experience exclusive comfort; you’ll embark on a transformative journey guided by knowledgeable experts. These guardians of the ancient past will lead you through the labyrinthine temples of Luxor, the bustling bazaars of Cairo, and along the meandering waters of the Nile.

Their expertise ensures that your adventure is both enlightening and enriching, as you forge a deep connection with the land and its inhabitants.

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WHO ARE JOURNEYSMITHS?

Choosing the right company to arrange your holiday to our world’s most complex and remote locations is vitally important. Like mankind, Journeysmiths’ roots are in Africa. 33 years ago John Burdett and Warwick Hoffman, the original Journeysmiths, founded Africa Exclusive. They were, and still are fired by a passion to show clients the wild world they love, in privacy and comfort. Today, driven by that same passion, Journeysmiths arranges the finest possible holidays to amazing places across five continents for our international clientele. Each trip is expertly arranged to exactly meet each client’s requirements and interests. We are proud of our exceptional level of service, which we believe sets us apart from other holiday companies.

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WHY JOURNEYSMITHS?

• We have over 33 years experience

• Our holidays are beautifully engineered

• We are passionate about quality

• We are fastidious about those tiny details

• We listen carefully, each client is unique

• We are committed to positive impact travel

• Our clients have a dedicated expert consultant

• Our prices are fair

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HELPING OUT

We are passionate about protecting the world’s most fragile environments. When you travel with us you are contributing to the protection of wildlife and the environment in partnership with local communities. As well as carefully selecting our partners around the world we also give 5% of our net profit each year to supporting charities and conservation efforts in the places we work.

FINANCIAL SECURITY

You have complete financial security when you book with Journeysmiths. We are fully bonded and licenced under the Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL scheme, licence number ATOL 2883 (Journeysmiths is a trading name of Africa Exclusive Ltd). This covers all clients who book their international flights from the UK and holiday arrangements through us. If you are arranging your own flights or you are not departing from the UK you are also protected by a separate insurance policy that we voluntarily maintain with Travel and General Insurance Services. This is called a Total Payment Protection Policy (TOPP) and the policy number is AELI/topp/23/17.

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TRAVEL WELL

Travel to the world’s fragile places should benefit the habitats, wildlife and people who live there. We call this ‘travelling well’ and it is a feature of every safari we arrange.

It may seem counterintuitive that visiting a place could protect it, but staying at the right place can do just that. We actively favour safari lodges which work in partnership with local communities to conserve wildlife. We also support charities and NGOs working in our destinations.

We are fortunate enough to enjoy the incredible biodiversity this planet has to offer. We believe it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

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In the 33 year life of Journeysmiths, Africa's human population has doubled. The future of vulnerable species and iconic landscapes can only be assured by a mutually beneficial partnership between Africa's people and wildlife.

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THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF YOUR TRIP

30 years ago we encountered Africa and fell in love with its awesome beauty. Ever since, we’ve been spreading the word, sharing our passion so that you too can experience the best of our world. In the best possible way. This means matching your individuality to a unique blend of places and experiences that fulfil your dreams and extend your horizons. It also means fighting to protect these fragile places.

The way we do this is simple but effective:

– We work with people who share our values

– We make it easy for you to see the positive impacts of your holiday

– We encourage you to get involved

– We donate a minimum of 5% of net profit to charity each year

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Our planet’s remote places and wildlife are under constant threat from poaching, encroachment and climate change. We favour lodges which actively conserve the land and its wildlife. This requires dynamic partnerships with local communities which leads to them benefiting significantly from wildlife conservation.

We include details of initiatives run by each property you will visit in your travel itinerary, so that you can see the positive impact of your stay. Our team would also be delighted to discuss ways you can get more involved.

To help protect the amazing places we send our clients to; we donate 5% of our net profits each to charitable conservation projects within Africa.

We also work alongside charities that are dedicated to protecting endangered species, providing environmental education to local children and ensuring human-wildlife coexistence is sustained.

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DAY 1 ROAD TRANSFER CAIRO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO ST. REGIS CAIRO

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ST. REGIS CAIRO 2 NIGHTS

ROOM CITY VIEW DAY 2 ACTIVITY PYRAMIDS OF GIZA, EGYPTIAN MUSEUM AND KHAN EL KHALILI BAZAAR

ROAD TRANSFER ST. REGIS CAIRO TO CAIRO DOMESTIC AIRPORT APPROX. 40 MINUTES PRIVATE

SCHEDULED FLIGHT CAIRO TO LUXOR

APPROX. 1 HOUR 20 MINUTES ECONOMY

DAY 3

ROAD TRANSFER LUXOR AIRPORT TO LUXOR DOCK APPROX. 20 MINUTES PRIVATE

TOUR OF KARNAK AND LUXOR TEMPLES, COCKTAIL RECEPTION, OVERNIGHT IN LUXOR

THE OBEROI PHILAE LUXURY NILE CRUISER 4 NIGHTS

TOUR OF WEST BANK & VALLEY OF THE KINGS, DIER EL MADINA AND COLOSSI OF MEMNON, SAIL TO ESSNA, CROSS THE ESSNA LOCK, OVERNIGHT IN ESSNA

TOUR OF TEMPLE OF EDFU, SAIL TO KOMOMBO, TOUR OF TWIN TEMPLE OF KOMOMBO,, OVERNIGHT IN KOM OMBO

DAY 6

SAIL TO ASWAN, TOUR OF HIGH DAM AND PHILAE TEMPLE, NUBIAN MUSEUM, OVERNIGHT IN ASWAN

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ROUTE
DURATION CLASS / ROOM TYPE
ACCOMMODATION
FULL
DATE SERVICE
& PROPERTY
APPROX.
MINUTES PRIVATE
SUPERIOR
DAY PRIVATE
ACTIVITY
ACCOMMODATION
HALF DAY SHARED
LUXURY CABIN DAY 4 ACTIVITY
FULL DAY SHARED
DAY 5 ACTIVITY
FULL DAY SHARED
FULL
ACTIVITY
DAY SHARED

DATE SERVICE

ROAD TRANSFER

ROUTE & PROPERTY

ASWAN DOCK TO ASWAN AIRPORT

APPROX. 30 MINUTES PRIVATE

SCHEDULED FLIGHT

ASWAN AIRPORT TO CAIRO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

APPROX. 2 HOURS ECONOMY

DAY 7

SCHEDULED FLIGHT

CAIRO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

APPROX. 4 HOURS 50 MINUTES ECONOMY

ROAD TRANSFER

ACCOMMODATION

NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO HEMINGWAYS NAIROBI

APPROX. 40 MINUTES PRIVATE

HEMINGWAYS NAIROBI

2 NIGHTS DELUXE SUITE

DAY 8 ACTIVITY SIGHTSEEING NAIROBI (OPTIONAL) HALF DAY PRIVATE

ROAD TRANSFER HEMINGWAYS TO WILSON AIRPORT

APPROX. 30 MINUTES PRIVATE

DAY 9

SCHEDULED LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT

GAME DRIVE TRANSFER

ACCOMMODATION

DAY 12

GAME DRIVE TRANSFER

SCHEDULED LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT

WILSON AIRPORT TO LOISABA CONSERVANCY

APPROX. 1 HOUR SHARED

LOISABA AIRSTRIP TO LOISABA LODO SPRINGS

APPROX. 15 MINUTES SHARED

LOISABA LODO SPRINGS

LOISABA LODO SPRINGS TO LOISABA AIRSTRIP

LOISABA AIRSTRIP TO NABOISHO AIRSTRIP

3 NIGHTS TENTED ROOM

AS NEEDED SHARED

APPROX. 2 HOURS SHARED

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AT A GLANCE...
DURATION CLASS / ROOM TYPE
12 JOURNEYSMITHS.CO.UK +44 1604 628979 | +1-866-871-3829 | AT A GLANCE... DATE SERVICE ROUTE & PROPERTY DURATION CLASS / ROOM TYPE DAY 12 CONTINUED GAME DRIVE TRANSFER NABOISHO AIRSTRIP TO MARA NYIKA CAMP AS NEEDED SHARED ACCOMMODATION MARA NYIKA CAMP 3 NIGHTS TENTED SUITE DAY 15 GAME DRIVE TRANSFER MARA NYIKA CAMP TO NABOISHO AIRSTRIP AS NEEDED SHARED SCHEDULED LIGHT AIRCRAFT FLIGHT NABOISHO AIRSTRIP TO WILSON AIRPORT APPROX. 45 MINUTES SHARED ROAD TRANSFER WILSON AIRPORT TO NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT APPROX. 30 MINUTES. PRIVATE
“Just to say a huge thanks for arranging our latest trip. It was absolutely amazing. All of the accommodation was top class and, as we’ve come to expect the attention to detail with all the transfers, excursions and other arrangements were perfect.”
GODDARD FAMILY
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ITINERARY IN DETAIL

DAYS 1 AND 2

JOURNEY

Arrival into Cairo International Airport (under own arrangements)

Private road transfer to hotel

ACCOMMODATION

St Regis Cairo

Superior Room City View 2 nights

INCLUSIONS

Breakfast

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Cairo is one of the world’s great cities with a history which runs back into the mists of time and whose architecture and culture has been influenced by its location at the crossroads between Europe, Arabia and Africa.

Modern Cairo is home to seventeen million people and is hot, noisy and very busy, though the old

parts, particularly the Old Coptic and Old Islamic quarters have fascinating architecture, palaces, ancient mosques and churches, bustling markets, absorbing museums and all are steeped in Egypt’s vibrant culture. The Egyptian Museum is world famous for its collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts including the treasures of Tutankhamen and you could easily spend all day there.

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The St. Regis Cairo is a wondrous five-star hotel, standing tall on the banks of the River Nile. Its stunning architecture and prominent location make it a remarkable landmark along the prestigious Nile Corniche. Located in the heart of Egypt’s bustling metropolis, this towering 39-story hotel offers easy access to many of the city’s key attractions, including the Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids of Giza.

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This lavish hotel comprises 362 rooms, suites and luxurious apartments, exquisitely adorned with elegant decor. Expansive bathrooms feature standalone baths, spacious showers and delicate mosaics. There is nowhere better to unwind after a busy day exploring, admiring the views of the glistening river or Cairo’s gleaming city lights.

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The St. Regis Cairo offers a delightful array of dining and bar options, catering to every palate. Experience culinary excellence with a diverse selection of restaurants, from authentic Arabic, Southern Italian, and Southeast Asian cuisines to the renowned J&G Steakhouse. Enjoy the elegant ambiance of the bars and lounges, perfect for unwinding with a refreshing drink or indulging in signature cocktails, whilst enjoying panoramic views over the river and city skyline.

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The hotel’s excellent facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, the rejuvenating Iridium Spa, a fitness centre, and the Astor Library — a haven for book enthusiasts. Palatial luxury and Middle Eastern hospitality create an enchanting ambiance in the public areas. Families can enjoy a babysitting service, the Amulet Children’s Club, and a dedicated outdoor kids’ pool. With attentive service throughout, a complimentary butler is available day or night to cater to your needs.

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On Day 2 enjoy a privately guided, full day tour of the great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum and the Khan El Khalili bazaar.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel, ready to start exploring ancient Egypt. Lying on the western edge of Greater Cairo, the great Pyramids of Giza; (Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus) are the only surviving structures from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - a single pyramid is built with 2,300,000 blocks, each weighing an average of two and a half tonne. The Ancient Egyptians built the Pyramids as tombs to preserve the bodies of their dead kings, believing in resurrection and immortality.

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Not far from the Pyramids is the Great Sphinx of Giza, which dates back to the time of Chephren (2620 BC). Hewn from natural yellowish limestone and standing 65 feet-high and 187 feet-long, this unforgettable statue combines the head of a Pharaoh with a lion's body. The face of the Sphinx closely resembles that of King Kephren.

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Lunch is served at a local restaurant (on own account), before continuing your tour to the Egyptian Museum. Established by the Egyptian government in 1835 the museum’s collection exceeds 120,000 objects, ranging from the prehistoric era to the Greco Roman period. There are 107 halls housing statues (large and small), jewels, Tutankhamen treasures and mummies - the Royal Mummies hall houses eleven kings and queens. There is also a photography section and large library.

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After the museum, a short drive through downtown will take you to Khan El Khalili bazaars; which is famous for its narrow alleyways, market stalls and lively atmosphere. Discover small restaurants and cafes, where Egyptians come to smoke water pipes and enjoy traditional Egyptian drinks.

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COMMUNITY

The St. Regis Cairo's parent company Marriott aims to create positive and sustainable impacts wherever they work. One of their many accomplishments was the raising of US$7 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and UNICEF in 2019.

Marriott employs innovative technologies to implement and track how they operate responsibly. Amongst other accomplishments, their efforts have seen a reduction in their environmental footprint and carbon emissions.

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ENVIRONMENT

DAYS 3 TO 6

JOURNEY

Private road transfer to Cairo Domestic Airport

Scheduled flight to Luxor

Private road transfer to Luxor dock

Embark Oberoi Philae for luxury Nile River cruise to Aswan

ACCOMMODATION

Oberoi Philae

Luxury Cabin

4 nights

INCLUSIONS

All meals, on-board entertainment and shared sight-seeing shore excursions; Karnak and Luxor temples, Valley of the Kings, King Tut's tomb, Ramses 'the six', Deir El Medina, Habu, Colossus of Memnon, Temple of Edfu, Twin temple of Kom Ombo, High Dam, Philae Temple and Nubian Museum

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Cruise in style on board the Oberoi Philae. The 22 cabins and suites are designed to the highest standards with specially commissioned fabrics and furniture to combine supreme elegance and luxury. Each cabin has its own huge openable French windows, affording panoramic views of the Egyptian landscape. Features include airconditioning, a mini-bar, 40” LED television, DVD player, high-speed Wi-Fi, iPod docking station, and electronic safe.

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The luxury cabins, with king or twin beds, occupy an area of 36sqm and have a combined bedroom and living room area, plus luxurious separate bathroom with river views. The 55sqm luxury suites have a living area separate to the bedroom, and the bathroom has a bath as well as a shower. There is one further suite that also has a large private terrace featuring a heated whirlpool, and the rooms are adorned with modern art.

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After each excursion make sure you enjoy a dip in the 11m temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool or relax in the magnificent onboard spa. Each treatment is sure to reinvigorate the senses for the next adventure. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre and a fully-equipped movie theatre and dancefloor.

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Dining on board is a sumptuous affair – the main restaurant inside serves freshly prepared international and Asian cuisines impeccably presented alongside fine crystal glassware, bone china, sterling silver, teak panelling and Oriental art.

The poolside restaurant offers more informal light meals and barbecues while the casual elegance of the bar and cigar lounge complements the experience on board. Subtle star-point lighting creates an atmosphere for ultimate relaxation with further superb views of the Nile.

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Day 3

A provisional itinerary for a 5 Day/4 Nights Nile cruise is as follows ;

After boarding in Luxor, enjoy lunch before heading out on afternoon guided tour visiting Karnak and Luxor temples. Spread out on the east bank of the Nile and built on the site of the New Kingdom capital city of Thebes, Luxor is the tourist Mecca of the Nile Valley. The exciting excavations in the 19th and early 20th centuries, along with the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb, aroused international interest in the town.

Luxor Temple is an enduring symbol that bridges the past and present, and its colossal statues, intricate carvings, and grand pylon entrance are captivating. Illuminated at night, it's a mesmerizing sight.

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Karnak Temple, is a vast complex dedicated to the gods and overwhelms with its sheer size. With your guide, walk the Avenue of Sphinxes, and stand in awe before the Hypostyle Hall. These temples offer a remarkable glimpse into the spiritual and architectural prowess of ancient Egypt, where myths and history intertwine.

Back on board your luxury cruiser, afternoon tea is served in the club lounge. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner. Overnight in Luxor.

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Day 4

An early breakfast, is followed by exploration of the West Bank with your Egyptologist guide. You will visit the Valley of the Kings, a remote barren necropolis of the New Kingdom pharaohs. By digging their tombs deep into the Theban Hills pharaohs from 1500 BC had hoped to stop robbers stealing the priceless possessions buried with them. Sixty two tombs have been found in the Valley of the Kings including Tomb of Ramesses VI, Tomb of Tutankhamen and Tomb of Seti.

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Then visit the beautiful temple of Medinet Habu second only to Karnak in size and detail. Soaring 18 meter (60 feet) into the sky, the two enthroned statues are the first monuments most visitors see on arriving in the West Bank. All that remains today are the two faceless colossi called the Colossi of Memnon, which, despite the ravages of time, are an impressive sight.

You then sail onward to Essna, located on the west bank of the Nile some 55km south of Luxor. Enjoy lunch on board as you pass through the Essna Lock. Later get ready for another delightful evening of exquisite dining and exceptional service from the Oberoi crew. Overnight in Essna.

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Day 5

Enjoy breakfast with views over the Nile, before visiting the Temple of Edfu. The Temple of Horus at Edfu was buried under sand and silt for nearly two thousand years and is the largest and best-preserved Ptolemaic temple in Egypt. Construction of the temple began in 237 B.C. and the main temple complex took 25 years to complete.

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As you sail to Komombo, take in the sights of life on the river, enjoying lunch en route. Discover the stories behind the twin temple of Komombo, in an early evening visit with your guide. One side of the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek, God of Fertility and Creator of the World. The other side is dedicated to the Falcon God Haroeis, also known as Horus, the Elder. The construction of the Temple of Komombo began in the 2nd century and completed in the 1st century BC.

The temple is built in imposing Graeco – Roman style and is in a particularly beautiful setting overlooking the Nile. The Chapel of Hathor to the south of the temple now houses a few crocodile mummies from the nearby crocodile necropolis.

Relax with a cocktail before dinner, and take a moment to reflect on all the ancient wonders you have discovered so far. Overnight in Kom Ombo.

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Day 6

At dawn, your Nile cruiser sets sail for Aswan. After breakfast, visit the High Dam and Philae temple. Built between 1960 and 1971, the immense High Dam is 3,830 meters(12,562 feet) across, 111 meters (364 feet) high and 980 meters (3,214 feet) wide at its base.

At the eastern end of the dam there is a visitors’ pavilion detailing the construction of the dam and at the western end there is a lotus shaped tower, built to commemorate the Soviet Union’s support in the building of the dam.

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The Philae Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Isis and was built in Ptolemaic times. The oldest parts of the temple were built by Nectanebo I (380 - 362 B.C.) and a large portion of the temple was constructed during the regime of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285 – 246 B.C.). With the building of the High Dam this monument was relocated to the nearby island of Agilika. The UNESCO led project took eight years to complete during which Agilika was landscaped to look like Philae.

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After lunch, you will then visit the Nubian Museum. In the early 1960’s, when the High Dam was built, Egyptologists and archaeologists the world over heeded UNESCO’s appeal to salvage the monuments of Egyptian Nubia before the rising waters of Lake Nasser submerged them forever. More than sixty expeditions ultimately joined the “Nubian Rescue Campaign”, which resulted in the excavation and recording of

hundreds of sites, the recovery of thousands of objects, and the salvage and translocation of a number of important temples to higher ground.

Tonight’s dinner will be another fine dining experience, enjoyed with new found friends and shared memories of exploring ruins from the ancient world. Overnight in Aswan.

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DAYS 7 AND 8

JOURNEY

Disembark the Oberoi Philae for private road transfer to Aswan Airport

Scheduled flight to Cairo

International flight to Nairobi

Private road transfer to hotel

ACCOMMODATION

Hemingways

Deluxe Suite

2 nights INCLUSIONS

Breakfast

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After breakfast, disembark the Oberoi Philae in Aswan, for your transfer to Aswan Airport and connect with an onward domestic flight to Cairo. On arrival at Cairo airport, check-in and connect

for an onward flight to Nairobi, Kenya, On arrival at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

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Hemingways Nairobi is a unique boutique hotel located in the peaceful suburb of Karen. There are 45 suites, each elegantly designed and furnished, with spacious en-suite bathroom, finest Egyptian cotton and bed linens, 40” LED television, complimentary Wi-Fi and personalised mini-bar.

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Part of the renowned Hemingways portfolio, the service and personal attention at the hotel is firstclass, with a dedicated team of butlers on hand to tend to your wishes. The Brasserie serves a highquality and varied menu while the contemporary

bar is a delightful place to relax in the evenings. A range of treatments and therapies are also available in the elegant spa, while you can also enjoy a dip in the pool or a stroll through the well-kept gardens.

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On Day 8 a private vehicle and driver will be available to you for a full day to explore the Nairobi National Park (entrance fees included) and visit the animal orphanage. You will also have the opportunity to visit the likes of the Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage or Karen Blixen Museum.

Nairobi National Park was opened in 1946 and is situated only five miles from the city centre. This unique area, entirely within the city limits and known as “the world’s only wildlife capital”, is only 44m² and is home to an amazing variety of wildlife, with over 100 mammal and over 400 bird species recorded, all with the city buildings and skyscrapers forming a backdrop.

Fenced on three sides, the fourth boundary is formed by the Athi River, affording access to migrating game. The park is one of the best places to see the endangered black rhino, and it is also possible to see eland, giraffe, buffalo, warthog, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle as well as lion, cheetah and occasionally leopard.

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The Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (as featured on BBC’s Elephant Diaries) is where the author and conservationist Daphne Sheldrick cares for abandoned young elephants and rhinos. Her experiences are told in her books The Tsavo Story and An Elephant called Eleanor. The orphanage has perfected the raising and re-integrating of orphaned elephants into the wild and the work of the dedicated staff here is inspirational.

The orphanage opens to the public from 11001200 daily. However there is also a second private opening from 1715-1800 for “foster parents only”. To attend the afternoon session it is necessary to adopt an elephant in advance, via the projects website at a cost of £25.00 / US$50.00. The private visits allows you to “go behind the scenes” of the orphanage, and view further interaction with the keepers and the elephants.

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The Giraffe Centre was started by Jock and Betty Leslie Melville in 1976. Their home, Giraffe Manor, where the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) was founded, is now a luxu-rious boutique hotel in the suburbs of Nairobi.

The purpose of the centre was to help preserve the Rothschild’s giraffe which was threat-ened at the time, and also to educate young Kenyans about conservation. Originally two Rothschild’s giraffe –Daisy and Marlon – were transported to the centre from western Ken-ya where the human population was spreading increasingly into their territory. A circular wooden building housing a small lecture theatre has been constructed, around which is a raised platform from where visitors can feed and observe the giraffe.

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DAYS 9 TO 11

JOURNEY

Private road transfer to Wilson Airport

Scheduled light aircraft flight to Loisaba Conservancy

Game drive transfer to camp

ACCOMMODATION

Loisaba Lodo Springs

Tented Room

3 Nights

INCLUSIONS

Meals, soft drinks, local beers, wines and spirits, limited laundry service, and shared activities: game drives, guided walks, bush breakfasts, sundowners, camel and horse riding (for experienced riders) within the Conservancy, mountain biking and sniffer dog experience.

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Lodo Springs is the newest and most luxurious camp in the renowned Loisaba Conservancy in central Kenya, offering dramatic views across the

stunning panorama of the Laikipia Plains all the way to Mount Kenya and the Matthews Mountain Range.

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This spectacular environment is the perfect place in which to relax and explore; it is also a prime location for spotting wildlife due to its rich ecosystem ranging from high plains to escarpment walls and riverine bush. Throughout Loisaba roam the second largest population of elephant in Kenya, lion and leopard alongside the rare northern species that thrive here – gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, greater kudu, beisa oryx and reticulated giraffe. Loisaba is also a wonderful location to view wild dog, and they can often be seen pursuing prey in highly organised packs across the plains.

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The eight private tents are spacious and airy, with floor to ceiling windows, polished wood floors and high ceilings. The decor is African inspired with a modern twist. A large private veranda is perfect to enjoy the sunny afternoons and the bathrooms have flush toilets, double basin vanities and a solar heated rainfall shower.

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Lodo Springs is made for adventure, and in addition to day and night game drives in the comfort of custom designed safari vehicles, guests enjoy complete freedom to choose how they spend their time, the only barrier being your own imagination. Trek through the bush with camels or on horseback, take a fishing trip or even a fascinating guided bush walk where you will focus on the smaller flora and fauna often missed on game drives.

Drive through the wild canyons of the two great rivers which span the vast property, visit a traditional Samburu village or for the even more adventurous there is the opportunity to ride mountain bikes over the plains. At over 227km², Loisaba is immense – you could take months exploring this land and never encounter the same view twice.

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CONSERVATION

Lodo Springs is located in the Loisaba Conservancy and revenue generated from bed nights is dedicated to the Conservancy’s efforts. Loisaba is becoming a hub for cutting-edge conservation efforts throughout Laikipia. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, it has its own anti-poaching team, comprising of four

sniffer dogs, Warrior, Machine, Memusi and Nanyokie - and their handler team. Guests at Lodo Springs have the unique opportunity to be part of a tracking demonstration to see the fantastic work this team does to protect the diversity of Loisaba’s wildlife.

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COMMUNITY

Revenue from Lodo Springs goes towards supporting community orientated health, education and enterprise programmes outside its boundaries within the neighbouring Samburu and Laikipiak Maasai tribes. Furthermore, bed night contributions from the camp contribute towards the Loisaba Conservency’s mission to support sustainable livestock production and improving the lives of neighbouring communities.

ENVIRONMENT

The camp’s owners, Elewana, have made considerable efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Lodo Springs has been designed to have as little impact as possible on its surroundings, employing strict recycling systems and ensuring that all recyclable waste is just thatrecycled! Furthermore, the use of single use plastic waste has been significantly reduced. In 2018, the camp implemented the ‘Ban the bottle’ initiative. Each guest receives a branded aluminium reusable bottle that can be filled up at filling points within the property. Historically, when reusable bottles were introduced to six of Elewana’s camps in Kenya, this was shown to prevent over 160,000 nonbiodegradable plastic bottles a year from ending up in landfills.

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DAYS 12 TO 14

JOURNEY

Game drive transfer to airstrip

Scheduled light aircraft flight to Naboisho Airstrip

Game drive transfer to camp

ACCOMMODATION

Mara Nyika Camp

Tented Suite 3 nights INCLUSIONS

Meals, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages including premium brand spirits and champagne, limited laundry service and activities: privately guided day and night game drives and shared guided bush walks. Hot-air balloon flights and cultural village visits can be arranged at additional cost.

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Adjoining the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, the Masai Mara Game Reserve is one of the world’s most famous and spectacular game viewing regions.

Covering an area of over 1800 square kilometres, vast expanses of undulating grassy plains roll from horizon to horizon dotted with acacia trees and isolated rocky outcrops.

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These rich grasslands and watering places sustain thousands of elephant, graceful-looking giraffe and big herds of buffalo, zebra and wildebeest. A host of smaller creatures such as baboon, warthog, hyena and jackal call the Mara home, while there are also myriad antelope species, from fleet-footed topi to majestic-looking kudu and diminutive dik dik. It is perhaps the only region left in Kenya where visitors may see animals in the same super abundance as existed a century ago.

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The Mara is home to the largest population of lions in Kenya. Though these magnificent beasts spend most of the day sleeping in the shade of acacia trees, they are always alert for the chance to make an easy meal out of larger herbivores. The smaller plains game are often targets for cheetah, which can be seen chasing down prey across the savannah.

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The waters of the Mara River are renowned for huge numbers of crocodiles and pods of hippo, whilst the acacia woodlands and riverine forests are favoured by opportunistic leopard who use their stealth and cunning to ambush antelope and other smaller creatures.

The birdlife in the Mara region is equally as abundant and even more varied. Eagles soar high overhead, vultures dance around carcasses, and hundreds of other species of beautiful birds both great and small provide a continual source of interest.

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From July to October the annual migration of over two million wildebeest, zebra and antelope passes through the Masai Mara creating one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles with seemingly endless lines of wildebeest strung out as far as the eye can see across the plains and plunging into the rivers braving crocodile jaws in one of the most exciting events in the natural world.

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Mara Nyika Camp is a superb and stylish camp on the vast 50,000-acre private Naboisho Conservancy in the heart of some of the best predator country in the Masai Mara. The camp is in a beautiful setting, straddling a stream, with views for miles across rolling hills and expansive open plains dotted with acacia trees, high escarpments and woodland. These play host to an incredible density of herbivores, reputed to be in the region of 230 individuals per square kilometre, which in turn attract an equally high number of predators.

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The camp is very intimate, with just three expansive guest suites and two two-bedroomed Family Suites, all under light-coloured canvas and raised under the tree canopy, evoking a sense of staying in a luxurious tented treehouse.

The rooms are open at the sides during the day with large king-size beds, stylish campaign-style furniture and well-equipped en suite bathroom with double vanity, flush toilets and a shower with continual hot water.

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The central main area is reached by raised wooden walkways, where a luxurious lounge with a small library and writing area can be found alongside a main dining room that can be utilised when not dining under the stars. The décor is rich in browns encouraging a relaxing break from the day’s activities. The central area is raised on decking and blessed with extraordinary views. The camp is run with a good sense of style and the standard of food and service is excellent being one of only two Relais & Chateaux accredited property in the Masai Mara and one of only three in the country.

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One day you may choose to head out on a full day game drive into the Masai Mara National Reserve itself, possibly heading towards the rivers and key crossing points if the migration is passing through the region. You might stop for a picnic lunch under an acacia tree before making your way back to camp and enjoying an evening in your private piece of Africa. Another day you may choose to stay closer to camp, exploring the game-rich plains all around you and so avoiding the crowds and minibuses commonly found in the reserve proper.

The rolling hills, vast open plains, and thick forest of the conservancy also offers guests the opportunity to experience exhilarating walking safaris with your Maasai guide, looking more closely at the flora and fauna surrounding you, understanding the delicate balances in play in the eco-system and learning wildlife tracking, bushcraft and hunter-gatherer techniques that have remained effective and unchanged for millennia.

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There is also a strong cultural focus at the camp with staff and guides keen to pass on the bush craft and knowledge passed down to them through many generations. The camp has strong ties and gives great support to local communities and they will always be keen for you to visit a local manyatta to gain an understanding of the way of life of these semi-nomadic people in a very authentic way – free from gimmicks and pressure to purchase items. The camp managers are very careful to

visit villages where guests can experience a true reflection of Maasai life.

More so than any other camp in East Africa, Mara Nyika manages to combine simplicity with a real sense of relaxed style, inspired guiding, cuisine and attention to detail, all of which goes to create an unforgettable African safari.

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During your stay, you may choose to enjoy an exciting hot-air balloon trip (at additional cost). As the sun rises the balloon slowly lifts above the trees to catch the early morning current. Drifting silently above the ground reveals a new dimension to the landscape of the Masai Mara. During the one hour flight you may see wildebeest, buffalo, elephant and lion before descending slowly onto the open plain. A sumptuous champagne breakfast is served before returning to the camp or continuing on a game drive.

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CONSERVATION

Mara Nyika Camp’s parent company; Great Plains Conservation (GPC) have set up The Project Ranger, a response to the Covid-19 crisis. The project will fill a critical gap in the wildlife monitoring, surveying, and anti-poaching operations of existing NGOs in Africa

through an emergency fund supporting those on the front-lines of conservation. Their aim is to raise $5 million to support the rangers and the critical work they do to prevent poaching in Kenya.

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COMMUNITY

Since 2010, GPC have partnered with local women in the communities surrounding the camp to honour and support traditional handicrafts and provide income generating opportunities through the sale of beadwork and other products in the camps’ bush boutiques. Across camps in Bot-swana and Kenya GPC has purchased more than $30,000 worth of items from women’s craft groups over the previous three years.

ENVIRONMENT

In 2019 GPC began a new program, Conservation Grows. Through the project they aim to restore indigenous trees to landscapes across Kenya, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Working with local communities and schools Conservation Grows teaches the value of indigenous trees and their critical role in functioning ecosystems.

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DAY 15

JOURNEY

Scheduled light aircraft flight to Wilson Airport

Private road transfer to Nairobi International Airport (via local restaurant for dinner)

Continue with own onward flight arrangements

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The price of this itinerary (subject to availability) on the basis that you book directly with us, and travelling as a party of two adults starts from: US$16,300 / £13,975 per person.

Inclusions:

Accommodation as detailed

Internal Flights (Economy)

Scheduled light aircraft flights in Kenya Road transfers as indicated Meals as listed

Private guided tour to the Pyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum

Cruise sightseeing as listed

Safari activities as listed

Private vehicle and guide in Nairobi for day of sightseeing

Pre-payable park/reserve fees

Exclusions:

International Flights

Any items not detailed in the travel itinerary

Nairobi tour entrance fees

Tips

Notes:

All the photos contained in this itinerary are illustrative of the lodges, transport and sights you will see on your holiday. Please note however that we cannot guarantee that you will see all the animals and birds shown as these are wild creatures and not under our control. Equally where specific food or drink, or furniture/furnishings are shown, these may not be identical to those you will experience. Please note inclusions are subject to change at the discretion of the property.

If flights have been included within your booking then unless provisionally held for you, these are subject to change and any increases in fares at the time of booking will be passed on. Similarly, if booking a trip inclusive of flights more than 11 months in advance we will try to give as accurate an indicative cost as possible, but exact flight costs will need to be obtained once flight fares become available and as such, any variance will be reflected in your final balance.

The nature of our holidays means that they may not be suitable for people with reduced mobility. If you have reduced mobility or any specific medical requirements, please ensure that you discuss these with your travel designer prior to booking your holiday.

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PRICING INFORMATION
© Journeysmiths

START PLANNING YOUR UNIQUE EGYPT ADVENTURE

ENQUIRE NOW

UK: (0)1604 628979

US: 1-866-871-3829

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VISAS, PASSPORTS AND VACCINATIONS INFORMATION

VISAS

Whilst we endeavour to keep up with the latest information regarding visas and entry requirements for each country, we recommend that clients contact the relevant Embassy or High Commission to obtain further information and up to date fees.

PASSPORTS

The passports required validity period is from the date of your departure from that country (note: regulations on this vary so please double-check with us if you have less than specified duration on your passport).

Please ensure you have sufficient blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) available in your passport for the countries to be visited.

VACCINATIONS

COUNTRIES TO BE VISITED

MALARIA PROPHYLACTICS ADVISED?

YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION ADVISED?

YELLOW

CERTIFICATE REQUIRED?

** This country requires you to have a yellow fever vaccination (or exemption certificate) only if you have recently visited a place where yellow fever is endemic.

EGYPT COUNTRIES TO BE VISITED NATIONALITY VISA REQUIRED VISA COST (PER PERSON) MOST YES (E-VISA) VARIES
EGYPT COUNTRIES TO BE VISITED REQUIRED VALIDITY NUMBER OF BLANK PAGES PER ENTRY 6 MONTHS 2
EGYPT NO NO **YES KENYA MOST YES (E-VISA) US$50 KENYA 6 MONTHS 2
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FEVER
KENYA YES
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18 Mobbs Miller House Christchurch Road Northampton

NN1 5LL

T: +44 (0) 1604 628979 | +1-866-871-3829

E: enquiries@journeysmiths.co.uk

www.journeysmiths.co.uk

JOURNEYSMITHS

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