Day 1 Arrive Nairobi
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival this evening you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Peacefully set in landscaped gardens, the five star Nairobi Serena Hotel overlooks Central Park and is five minutes walking distance from the city center.
Each room has satellite TV, minibar, electronic safe, direct dial telephone, air conditioning, private bath and shower, telephone in bathroom, hair dryer and shaving mirror. All bedrooms and halls are newly renovated. All suites fitted with facsimile.
The hotel is renowned for efficient, personalized and attentive service. Dining: Mandhari Restaurant offers fine a la carte dining with modern contemporary cuisine. Cafe Mahred is an all day restaurant with theme buffets and a la carte menu.
A residents lounge and pool bar are also available. Sports: Maisha Health and Fitness Center with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gymnasium and massage. Fresh water swimming pool. Complimentary golf facilities nearby.
Additional features: business center with PC, facsimile and meeting room. Conference rooms for 10 to 250 people, audio visual equipment, boutiques, hair salon, car rental, free parking, 24 hour room service, free courtesy bus to and from town.
×
Day 2 Nairobi | Meals: BL
Start the day at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage. Meet the special care-givers who raise their tiny charges. Fall in love with these special elephants who are learning to live as an elephant in the wild. Stop for lunch before continuing to the Karen Blixen Museum, where you have time to stroll the grounds and visit the home of the famous author of "Out of Africa." Then, it's on the Giraffe Center for a fun opportunity to feed the giraffes from an elevated platform,
Peacefully set in landscaped gardens, the five star Nairobi Serena Hotel overlooks Central Park and is five minutes walking distance from the city center.
Each room has satellite TV, minibar, electronic safe, direct dial telephone, air conditioning, private bath and shower, telephone in bathroom, hair dryer and shaving mirror. All bedrooms and halls are newly renovated. All suites fitted with facsimile.
The hotel is renowned for efficient, personalized and attentive service. Dining: Mandhari Restaurant offers fine a la carte dining with modern contemporary cuisine. Cafe Mahred is an all day restaurant with theme buffets and a la carte menu.
A residents lounge and pool bar are also available. Sports: Maisha Health and Fitness Center with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gymnasium and massage. Fresh water swimming pool. Complimentary golf facilities nearby.
Additional features: business center with PC, facsimile and meeting room. Conference rooms for 10 to 250 people, audio visual equipment, boutiques, hair salon, car rental, free parking, 24 hour room service, free courtesy bus to and from town.
×
Day 3 Nairobi-Masai Mara | Meals: BLD
Begin your safari in Kenya's most famous park, as your drive takes you to the Masai Mara today. Arrive in time for lunch and then enjoy an afternoon game drive. Have your game-viewing checklist handy, as the Masai Mara has one of the richest varieties of birdlife and wildlife in the world. Buffalo and wildebeest herds are huge in the Mara - and predators like lion and hyena are equally
abundant.
An interpretation of a traditional Masai Manyatta village of domed huts, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is set on the saddle of a hill where it overlooks the 1,800 square kilometers of rolling plains, woodlands and rivers that make up the Masai Mara Triangle - one of the world's richest wildlife sanctuaries. No other lodge has such a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape or the game and birdlife that inhabit it. It is on this very terrain stretching endlessly before the lodge where the annual migrations take place, where millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traverse the landscape to feed on the rich new grass and give birth to their young.
74 Guest Rooms
×
Day 4 Masai Mara | Meals: BLD
You might want to start the day with an optional balloon safari, floating over the Mara as the animals begin to stir. Morning and afternoon game drives are always exciting in the Masai Mara, as you never know what you will see! Topi, gazelle and elephant are frequently seen, as are silverbacked jackals, hippo and crocodiles.
An interpretation of a traditional Masai Manyatta village of domed huts, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is set on the saddle of a hill where it overlooks the 1,800 square kilometers of rolling plains, woodlands and rivers that make up the Masai Mara Triangle - one of the world's richest wildlife sanctuaries. No other lodge has such a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape or the game and birdlife that inhabit it. It is on this very terrain stretching endlessly before the lodge where the annual migrations take place, where millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traverse the landscape to feed on the rich new grass and give birth to their young.
74 Guest Rooms
×
Day 5 Masai Mara-Great Rift Valley | Meals: BLD
Your journey takes you into the Rift Valley and ecologically diverse Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive which might reveal rhino, Rothschild giraffe, waterbuck and impala. Watch the treetops for the playful black and white Colobus monkeys. Then, continue to Lake Nakuru or Lake Naivasha for the night.
Uniquely situated on the shoreline of sapphire-blue Lake Elmenteita where hundreds of thousands of birds congregate sits the small and exclusive Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp. This area of breathtaking beauty, also home to many rare species of animals, is less than two hours’ drive from Nairobi and just a short distance to the famous Flamingo filled Lake Nakuru.
Each of the luxury tents have a private verandah, perfect to soak in the gorgeous views of Lake Elementaita. Your tent is outfitted with a mini-bar, electronic safe, telephone and WIFI. When you are not relaxing in your tent, why not take a dip in the pool or pamper yourself with a massage.
Soysambu Conservancy, where Elementaita is set, is a 48,000 acre Wildlife Conservancy, also a RAMSAR site - a wetland of international importance. The alkaline lake’s rocky islands are the only East African nesting site for great white pelicans, while its algae and plankton provides food for vast flocks of flamingos and a multitude of other waterfowl, many of them rare. The Conservancy protects over 450 bird species and 15,000 wild animals. Rothschild giraffes have found a safe haven for breeding here, while a diverse variety of terrain shelters many species - from herds of giant elands to tiny dik-diks and cliff-dwelling klipspringers. Night game-drives offer a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures including the curious-looking aardvark and elusive leopard. Walking is also allowed, with chances to experience the miracles of the bush close-up. Atmospheric bush dinners beneath the stars and spectacular sundowners over this geologically fascinating part of the Great Rift Valley are a few more of the camp’s exciting activities. Lake Nakuru National Park and Kariandusi prehistoric site are also nearby.
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Day 6 Great Rift Valley-Amboseli | Meals: BLD
Leave early this morning and drive towards Nairobi and then turn south towards stunning Amboseli National Park at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Cynthia Moss focused much of her research on elephants in Amboseli National Park as herds of these gentle giants dot the plains.
In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, beside a copse of giant Acacia trees and a gently flowing natural spring, stands Amboseli Serena - one of Africa's finest safari lodges. All around the lodge roams the big game that have made East Africa legendary - lion, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, baboon, gazelle and wildebeest. More wild elephant can be seen in Amboseli National Park than almost anywhere else on the continent.
With Kilimanjaro's 6,000 meter snow-capped peaks presiding over the landscape, the setting is unrivalled. Influenced by native Masai architecture, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its environment. Beautifully landscaped gardens, unique guest services and exceptional amenities enhance the distinctive ambience.
96 Guest Rooms
×
Day 7 Amboseli | Meals: BLD
Rise early this morning to catch the first views of Mt. Kilimanjaro as its snow-capped summit peaks out from under the clouds. Amboseli boasts five different wildlife habitats and the wide open flat plains make spotting wildlife a little easier. Look for the amusing warthog along with jackal, baboons, lions and cheetahs.
In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, beside a copse of giant Acacia trees and a gently flowing natural spring, stands Amboseli Serena - one of Africa's finest safari lodges. All around the lodge roams the big game that have made East Africa legendary - lion, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, baboon, gazelle and wildebeest. More wild elephant can be seen in Amboseli National Park than almost anywhere else on the continent.
With Kilimanjaro's 6,000 meter snow-capped peaks presiding over the landscape, the setting is unrivalled. Influenced by native Masai architecture, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its environment. Beautifully landscaped gardens, unique guest services and exceptional amenities enhance the distinctive ambience.
96 Guest Rooms
×
Day 8 Amboseli-Tarangire | Meals: BLD
Following an early breakfast, catch your last views of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as you depart
Amboseli. You travel by road to the Namanga border where you will say goodbye to your Kenya
driver/guide. You meet your Tanzanian transfer driver and travel by road to Arusha where you have lunch. You meet any other travellers joining the trip in Arusha and continue to Tarangire National Park. Once you pass the park gate, you begin game viewing as you make your way to the lodge, arriving for dinner and overnight.
Built to blend in with the vastness of its surroundings, Tarangire Sopa Lodge lies hidden among the kopjes, ancient baobab and grasses of the Tarangire National Park - home to the greatest concentration of elephants in Africa. Many can be seen around the lodge, allowing visitors a close encounter.
Built on different levels, the main public area building offers an extremely cool respite from the outdoor heat as soon as you step into the reception.
With a perfumed towel and a chilled welcome drink in hand, you suddenly become aware of the sheer size of the lobby with its glistening marble floors, colourful hand-woven carpets, and an incredibly high roof. From here a short flight of steps takes you up a level and into the lounge and bar with floor to ceiling windows, an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy an evening sundowner and, later perhaps, a game of pool in the area behind the bar.
While our circular guest suites with their high, conical roofs fan out to either side of the public areas, it is worth mentioning a word of caution here. Because the lodge is not fenced in any way, wild animals are at liberty to come and go as they please and transits to your room and back might be - but rarely - delayed by an elephant or two. This is the only reason our guards will insist on taking you to and fro at night.
Once inside the coolness of your room, you will be delighted at its space and airiness, and also the views from its sheltered veranda. With its mini-bar, two double beds and an extremely spacious, well appointed bathroom, you can only wish that you were staying an extra night.
×
Day 9 Tarangire-Lake Manyara | Meals: BLD
Spend the morning on a game drive in Tarangire National Park. The park is named after the Tarangire River which runs through it and is known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. The park covers an area of 2,850 square kilometres and is home to over 550 bird species, as well as lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and many more animals. The park is also known for its baobab trees and picturesque views of the Maasai Steppe and the Rift Valley.
After lunch at the lodge, continue on to Lake Manyara. As you approach Lake Manyara, you are sure to be struck by the dramatic views. The lake lies in a depressed valley with the brown and red cliffs of the escarpment rising strikingly on one side. Springs rise up from the base of the escarpment, providing a welcome water supply.
It is difficult to imagine a more spectacular setting for Lake Manyara Serena Lodge - on the edge of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, overlooking the Great Rift Valley and the stunning Manyara soda lake. Tree-climbing lions are but one lure. The extraordinary birdlife has made this place world-renowned among ornithologists, who come to observe the masses of pink flamingos and great birds of prey.
The abundant birdlife inspired the design of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge - swooping curves are complemented by soft, geometric patterns; stylish murals depict bird migration patterns. The circular shape of the buildings is a tribute to indigenous architectural traditions. Beyond the superb standards of hospitality offered, there is a spirit of tranquility that prevails.
67 Guest Rooms
×
Day 10 Lake Manyara-Serengeti | Meals: BLD
Enjoy an early morning game drive before departing for Tanzania's most famous park, the Serengeti. The name Serengeti is derived from the Maasai word "siringet," which means endless plains. Appropriately named, every year the Serengeti plays host to one of the world's most impressive migration of herbivores. Game-viewing is exciting year-round, as the Serengeti supports large prides of lions as well as a healthy population of leopards.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is set high on a hill with breathtaking vistas of sweeping grasslands and the unspoiled wilderness landscape of the Serengeti plains. Big game feed in full view of the lodge. The Serengeti is a natural paradise and home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth - the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle.
The lodge design is simple but stunning. Inspired by a traditional African village, separate rondavel "huts" house the luxury guest rooms that have their own view of the vast Serengeti plains. From the overall impression to the smallest detail, the lodge is rich in local atmosphere created by indigenous handicrafts and art.
A delightful water feature runs through the main public areas, creating a natural source of waterborne plants and provides a home to many indigenous species of reptiles, amphibians and birds.
All 66 guest rooms have private balconies with views of the Serengeti Plains
×
Day 11 Serengeti | Meals: BLD
The short grass plains of the Serengeti combined with an abundant source of food in large herds of zebra, wildebeest, impala and buffalo, make the Serengeti an ideal place to spot cheetah on the hunt. Cheetahs (unlike lions and leopards) will hunt during the day. Unfortunately, its open hunting technique also makes it easy for lion and leopard to steal the cheetah's kill. Enjoy morning and
afternoon game drives today.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is set high on a hill with breathtaking vistas of sweeping grasslands and the unspoiled wilderness landscape of the Serengeti plains. Big game feed in full view of the lodge. The Serengeti is a natural paradise and home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth - the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle.
The lodge design is simple but stunning. Inspired by a traditional African village, separate rondavel "huts" house the luxury guest rooms that have their own view of the vast Serengeti plains. From the overall impression to the smallest detail, the lodge is rich in local atmosphere created by indigenous handicrafts and art.
A delightful water feature runs through the main public areas, creating a natural source of waterborne plants and provides a home to many indigenous species of reptiles, amphibians and birds.
All 66 guest rooms have private balconies with views of the Serengeti Plains
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Day 12 Serengeti-Ngorongoro | Meals: BLD
Game drive your way across the plains, stopping for a picnic lunch enroute. We arrive at Ngorongoro Conservation area early afternoon, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. At just 100 square miles, Ngorongoro Crater comprises a small portion of the 3200 square mile conservation area.
As if in a land before time, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built into the rim of a dormant and collapsed volcano (known as a caldera), the plant and ivy-covered native stone blending masterfully with its surroundings. Close by lies the Olduvai Gorge, the "birthplace of man". Today the volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and birdlife. Most guest rooms have private terraces with views of the crater floor where countless animals make their home. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.
Facilities
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Day 13 Ngorongoro | Meals: BLD
Spend the morning game-viewing on the crater floor. Supporting more than 20,000 mammals, Ngorongoro Crater is home to a wide variety of both herbivores and carnivores. Zebra, wildebeest, buffalo and eland are abundant. With such a rich food supply, carnivores like lion, hyenas and leopard are also at home in the crater. Watch for the kori bustard (the world's largest flying bird) to see if you can spot its elaborate territorial display during breeding season.
As if in a land before time, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built into the rim of a dormant and collapsed volcano (known as a caldera), the plant and ivy-covered native stone blending masterfully with its surroundings. Close by lies the Olduvai Gorge, the "birthplace of man". Today the volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and birdlife. Most guest rooms have private terraces with views of the crater floor where countless animals make their home. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.
Facilities
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Day 14 Ngorongoro-Nairobi-Depart | Meals: BLD
Return to Arusha for lunch and then continue to Nairobi, arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your late evening departure flight.
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival this evening you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Nairobi Serena Hotel
Peacefully set in landscaped gardens, the five star Nairobi Serena Hotel overlooks Central Park and is five minutes walking distance from the city center.
Each room has satellite TV, minibar, electronic safe, direct dial telephone, air conditioning, private bath and shower, telephone in bathroom, hair dryer and shaving mirror. All bedrooms and halls are newly renovated. All suites fitted with facsimile.
The hotel is renowned for efficient, personalized and attentive service. Dining: Mandhari Restaurant offers fine a la carte dining with modern contemporary cuisine. Cafe Mahred is an all day restaurant with theme buffets and a la carte menu.
A residents lounge and pool bar are also available. Sports: Maisha Health and Fitness Center with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gymnasium and massage. Fresh water swimming pool. Complimentary golf facilities nearby.
Additional features: business center with PC, facsimile and meeting room. Conference rooms for 10 to 250 people, audio visual equipment, boutiques, hair salon, car rental, free parking, 24 hour room service, free courtesy bus to and from town.
×
Day 2 Nairobi | Meals: BL
Start the day at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage. Meet the special care-givers who raise their tiny charges. Fall in love with these special elephants who are learning to live as an elephant in the wild. Stop for lunch before continuing to the Karen Blixen Museum, where you have time to stroll the grounds and visit the home of the famous author of "Out of Africa." Then, it's on the Giraffe Center for a fun opportunity to feed the giraffes from an elevated platform,
Nairobi Serena Hotel
Peacefully set in landscaped gardens, the five star Nairobi Serena Hotel overlooks Central Park and is five minutes walking distance from the city center.
Each room has satellite TV, minibar, electronic safe, direct dial telephone, air conditioning, private bath and shower, telephone in bathroom, hair dryer and shaving mirror. All bedrooms and halls are newly renovated. All suites fitted with facsimile.
The hotel is renowned for efficient, personalized and attentive service. Dining: Mandhari Restaurant offers fine a la carte dining with modern contemporary cuisine. Cafe Mahred is an all day restaurant with theme buffets and a la carte menu.
A residents lounge and pool bar are also available. Sports: Maisha Health and Fitness Center with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gymnasium and massage. Fresh water swimming pool. Complimentary golf facilities nearby.
Additional features: business center with PC, facsimile and meeting room. Conference rooms for 10 to 250 people, audio visual equipment, boutiques, hair salon, car rental, free parking, 24 hour room service, free courtesy bus to and from town.
×
Day 3 Nairobi-Masai Mara | Meals: BLD
Begin your safari in Kenya's most famous park, as your drive takes you to the Masai Mara today. Arrive in time for lunch and then enjoy an afternoon game drive. Have your game-viewing checklist handy, as the Masai Mara has one of the richest varieties of birdlife and wildlife in the world. Buffalo and wildebeest herds are huge in the Mara - and predators like lion and hyena are equally
abundant.
Mara Serena Lodge
An interpretation of a traditional Masai Manyatta village of domed huts, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is set on the saddle of a hill where it overlooks the 1,800 square kilometers of rolling plains, woodlands and rivers that make up the Masai Mara Triangle - one of the world's richest wildlife sanctuaries. No other lodge has such a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape or the game and birdlife that inhabit it. It is on this very terrain stretching endlessly before the lodge where the annual migrations take place, where millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traverse the landscape to feed on the rich new grass and give birth to their young.
74 Guest Rooms
×
Day 4 Masai Mara | Meals: BLD
You might want to start the day with an optional balloon safari, floating over the Mara as the animals begin to stir. Morning and afternoon game drives are always exciting in the Masai Mara, as you never know what you will see! Topi, gazelle and elephant are frequently seen, as are silverbacked jackals, hippo and crocodiles.
Mara Serena Lodge
An interpretation of a traditional Masai Manyatta village of domed huts, Mara Serena Safari Lodge is set on the saddle of a hill where it overlooks the 1,800 square kilometers of rolling plains, woodlands and rivers that make up the Masai Mara Triangle - one of the world's richest wildlife sanctuaries. No other lodge has such a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape or the game and birdlife that inhabit it. It is on this very terrain stretching endlessly before the lodge where the annual migrations take place, where millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traverse the landscape to feed on the rich new grass and give birth to their young.
74 Guest Rooms
×
Day 5 Masai Mara-Great Rift Valley | Meals: BLD
Your journey takes you into the Rift Valley and ecologically diverse Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive which might reveal rhino, Rothschild giraffe, waterbuck and impala. Watch the treetops for the playful black and white Colobus monkeys. Then, continue to Lake Nakuru or Lake Naivasha for the night.
Lake Elementaita Serena Camp
Uniquely situated on the shoreline of sapphire-blue Lake Elmenteita where hundreds of thousands of birds congregate sits the small and exclusive Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp. This area of breathtaking beauty, also home to many rare species of animals, is less than two hours’ drive from Nairobi and just a short distance to the famous Flamingo filled Lake Nakuru.
Each of the luxury tents have a private verandah, perfect to soak in the gorgeous views of Lake Elementaita. Your tent is outfitted with a mini-bar, electronic safe, telephone and WIFI. When you are not relaxing in your tent, why not take a dip in the pool or pamper yourself with a massage.
Soysambu Conservancy, where Elementaita is set, is a 48,000 acre Wildlife Conservancy, also a RAMSAR site - a wetland of international importance. The alkaline lake’s rocky islands are the only East African nesting site for great white pelicans, while its algae and plankton provides food for vast flocks of flamingos and a multitude of other waterfowl, many of them rare. The Conservancy protects over 450 bird species and 15,000 wild animals. Rothschild giraffes have found a safe haven for breeding here, while a diverse variety of terrain shelters many species - from herds of giant elands to tiny dik-diks and cliff-dwelling klipspringers. Night game-drives offer a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures including the curious-looking aardvark and elusive leopard. Walking is also allowed, with chances to experience the miracles of the bush close-up. Atmospheric bush dinners beneath the stars and spectacular sundowners over this geologically fascinating part of the Great Rift Valley are a few more of the camp’s exciting activities. Lake Nakuru National Park and Kariandusi prehistoric site are also nearby.
×
Day 6 Great Rift Valley-Amboseli | Meals: BLD
Leave early this morning and drive towards Nairobi and then turn south towards stunning Amboseli National Park at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Cynthia Moss focused much of her research on elephants in Amboseli National Park as herds of these gentle giants dot the plains.
Amboseli Serena Lodge
In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, beside a copse of giant Acacia trees and a gently flowing natural spring, stands Amboseli Serena - one of Africa's finest safari lodges. All around the lodge roams the big game that have made East Africa legendary - lion, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, baboon, gazelle and wildebeest. More wild elephant can be seen in Amboseli National Park than almost anywhere else on the continent.
With Kilimanjaro's 6,000 meter snow-capped peaks presiding over the landscape, the setting is unrivalled. Influenced by native Masai architecture, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its environment. Beautifully landscaped gardens, unique guest services and exceptional amenities enhance the distinctive ambience.
96 Guest Rooms
×
Day 7 Amboseli | Meals: BLD
Rise early this morning to catch the first views of Mt. Kilimanjaro as its snow-capped summit peaks out from under the clouds. Amboseli boasts five different wildlife habitats and the wide open flat plains make spotting wildlife a little easier. Look for the amusing warthog along with jackal, baboons, lions and cheetahs.
Amboseli Serena Lodge
In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, beside a copse of giant Acacia trees and a gently flowing natural spring, stands Amboseli Serena - one of Africa's finest safari lodges. All around the lodge roams the big game that have made East Africa legendary - lion, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, baboon, gazelle and wildebeest. More wild elephant can be seen in Amboseli National Park than almost anywhere else on the continent.
With Kilimanjaro's 6,000 meter snow-capped peaks presiding over the landscape, the setting is unrivalled. Influenced by native Masai architecture, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its environment. Beautifully landscaped gardens, unique guest services and exceptional amenities enhance the distinctive ambience.
96 Guest Rooms
×
Day 8 Amboseli-Tarangire | Meals: BLD
Following an early breakfast, catch your last views of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as you depart
Amboseli. You travel by road to the Namanga border where you will say goodbye to your Kenya
driver/guide. You meet your Tanzanian transfer driver and travel by road to Arusha where you have lunch. You meet any other travellers joining the trip in Arusha and continue to Tarangire National Park. Once you pass the park gate, you begin game viewing as you make your way to the lodge, arriving for dinner and overnight.
Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Built to blend in with the vastness of its surroundings, Tarangire Sopa Lodge lies hidden among the kopjes, ancient baobab and grasses of the Tarangire National Park - home to the greatest concentration of elephants in Africa. Many can be seen around the lodge, allowing visitors a close encounter.
Built on different levels, the main public area building offers an extremely cool respite from the outdoor heat as soon as you step into the reception.
With a perfumed towel and a chilled welcome drink in hand, you suddenly become aware of the sheer size of the lobby with its glistening marble floors, colourful hand-woven carpets, and an incredibly high roof. From here a short flight of steps takes you up a level and into the lounge and bar with floor to ceiling windows, an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy an evening sundowner and, later perhaps, a game of pool in the area behind the bar.
While our circular guest suites with their high, conical roofs fan out to either side of the public areas, it is worth mentioning a word of caution here. Because the lodge is not fenced in any way, wild animals are at liberty to come and go as they please and transits to your room and back might be - but rarely - delayed by an elephant or two. This is the only reason our guards will insist on taking you to and fro at night.
Once inside the coolness of your room, you will be delighted at its space and airiness, and also the views from its sheltered veranda. With its mini-bar, two double beds and an extremely spacious, well appointed bathroom, you can only wish that you were staying an extra night.
- 75 spacious rooms, all with a private lounge on entering with a mini bar. Each room has 2 queen size beds with a mosquito net around them.
- 4 of these rooms are suitable for the physically challenged.
- 4 interconnecting rooms suitable for families.
×
Day 9 Tarangire-Lake Manyara | Meals: BLD
Spend the morning on a game drive in Tarangire National Park. The park is named after the Tarangire River which runs through it and is known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. The park covers an area of 2,850 square kilometres and is home to over 550 bird species, as well as lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and many more animals. The park is also known for its baobab trees and picturesque views of the Maasai Steppe and the Rift Valley.
After lunch at the lodge, continue on to Lake Manyara. As you approach Lake Manyara, you are sure to be struck by the dramatic views. The lake lies in a depressed valley with the brown and red cliffs of the escarpment rising strikingly on one side. Springs rise up from the base of the escarpment, providing a welcome water supply.
Lake Manyara Serena Lodge
It is difficult to imagine a more spectacular setting for Lake Manyara Serena Lodge - on the edge of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, overlooking the Great Rift Valley and the stunning Manyara soda lake. Tree-climbing lions are but one lure. The extraordinary birdlife has made this place world-renowned among ornithologists, who come to observe the masses of pink flamingos and great birds of prey.
The abundant birdlife inspired the design of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge - swooping curves are complemented by soft, geometric patterns; stylish murals depict bird migration patterns. The circular shape of the buildings is a tribute to indigenous architectural traditions. Beyond the superb standards of hospitality offered, there is a spirit of tranquility that prevails.
67 Guest Rooms
×
Day 10 Lake Manyara-Serengeti | Meals: BLD
Enjoy an early morning game drive before departing for Tanzania's most famous park, the Serengeti. The name Serengeti is derived from the Maasai word "siringet," which means endless plains. Appropriately named, every year the Serengeti plays host to one of the world's most impressive migration of herbivores. Game-viewing is exciting year-round, as the Serengeti supports large prides of lions as well as a healthy population of leopards.
Serengeti Serena Lodge
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is set high on a hill with breathtaking vistas of sweeping grasslands and the unspoiled wilderness landscape of the Serengeti plains. Big game feed in full view of the lodge. The Serengeti is a natural paradise and home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth - the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle.
The lodge design is simple but stunning. Inspired by a traditional African village, separate rondavel "huts" house the luxury guest rooms that have their own view of the vast Serengeti plains. From the overall impression to the smallest detail, the lodge is rich in local atmosphere created by indigenous handicrafts and art.
A delightful water feature runs through the main public areas, creating a natural source of waterborne plants and provides a home to many indigenous species of reptiles, amphibians and birds.
All 66 guest rooms have private balconies with views of the Serengeti Plains
×
Day 11 Serengeti | Meals: BLD
The short grass plains of the Serengeti combined with an abundant source of food in large herds of zebra, wildebeest, impala and buffalo, make the Serengeti an ideal place to spot cheetah on the hunt. Cheetahs (unlike lions and leopards) will hunt during the day. Unfortunately, its open hunting technique also makes it easy for lion and leopard to steal the cheetah's kill. Enjoy morning and
afternoon game drives today.
Serengeti Serena Lodge
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is set high on a hill with breathtaking vistas of sweeping grasslands and the unspoiled wilderness landscape of the Serengeti plains. Big game feed in full view of the lodge. The Serengeti is a natural paradise and home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth - the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle.
The lodge design is simple but stunning. Inspired by a traditional African village, separate rondavel "huts" house the luxury guest rooms that have their own view of the vast Serengeti plains. From the overall impression to the smallest detail, the lodge is rich in local atmosphere created by indigenous handicrafts and art.
A delightful water feature runs through the main public areas, creating a natural source of waterborne plants and provides a home to many indigenous species of reptiles, amphibians and birds.
All 66 guest rooms have private balconies with views of the Serengeti Plains
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Day 12 Serengeti-Ngorongoro | Meals: BLD
Game drive your way across the plains, stopping for a picnic lunch enroute. We arrive at Ngorongoro Conservation area early afternoon, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. At just 100 square miles, Ngorongoro Crater comprises a small portion of the 3200 square mile conservation area.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
As if in a land before time, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built into the rim of a dormant and collapsed volcano (known as a caldera), the plant and ivy-covered native stone blending masterfully with its surroundings. Close by lies the Olduvai Gorge, the "birthplace of man". Today the volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and birdlife. Most guest rooms have private terraces with views of the crater floor where countless animals make their home. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.
Facilities
- 75 rock-built rooms with panoramic private balconies
- Rock built dining room and bar with central fire
- Extensive viewing terraces
- Game drives into the Crater daily
- Wedding planning and honeymoon venue
- Gift shop, business centre, WiFi
- Tented conference centre
- Extensive selection of sports and activities
- Cultural dance and music
- TV room with satellite TV
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Day 13 Ngorongoro | Meals: BLD
Spend the morning game-viewing on the crater floor. Supporting more than 20,000 mammals, Ngorongoro Crater is home to a wide variety of both herbivores and carnivores. Zebra, wildebeest, buffalo and eland are abundant. With such a rich food supply, carnivores like lion, hyenas and leopard are also at home in the crater. Watch for the kori bustard (the world's largest flying bird) to see if you can spot its elaborate territorial display during breeding season.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
As if in a land before time, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built into the rim of a dormant and collapsed volcano (known as a caldera), the plant and ivy-covered native stone blending masterfully with its surroundings. Close by lies the Olduvai Gorge, the "birthplace of man". Today the volcano and surrounding landscape are part of a vast conservation area inhabited by the Masai tribe, as well as an extraordinary variety of big game and birdlife. Most guest rooms have private terraces with views of the crater floor where countless animals make their home. At Ngorongoro Serena Lodge visitors co-exist in perfect harmony with the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.
Facilities
- 75 rock-built rooms with panoramic private balconies
- Rock built dining room and bar with central fire
- Extensive viewing terraces
- Game drives into the Crater daily
- Wedding planning and honeymoon venue
- Gift shop, business centre, WiFi
- Tented conference centre
- Extensive selection of sports and activities
- Cultural dance and music
- TV room with satellite TV
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Day 14 Ngorongoro-Nairobi-Depart | Meals: BLD
Return to Arusha for lunch and then continue to Nairobi, arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your late evening departure flight.