The Great Rift Valley travel guide Introduction

The Great Rift Valley, the world’s biggest terrestrial geographic feature, measures round 6,000km (3,728 miles) from north to south. Equal to kind of one-7th of the earth’s circumference.

The great rift valley

Additionally the major Japanese Rift Valley runs from the Jordan Valley withinside the north. Takes withinside the entire of the Red Sea, sheers via Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya,  Tanzania and Malawi, and eventually reaches the ocean close to the Zambezi Delta.

Furthermore, a separate western arm begins off evolved withinside the Sudanese Nile Valley. Then runs southward alongside the Congolese border of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania to enroll in the principle Rift near the northern tip of Lake Nyasa-Malawi.

Location

The fault line typically known as the valley extends from Tanzania through Kenya and into Ethiopia, from south to north.

Most of  falls in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, stated to be the maximum lovely section. This well-known valley is a part of the Japanese branch (Eastern Rift Valley) of the bigger East African Rift.

The Eastern Rift Valley, or Gregory Rift, is one in every of branches of the East African Rift, the opposite is the Western Rift Valley or Albertine Rift.

 Lakes

The scenic Kenya Rift Lake system is an important part of the north-south migratory route of numerous birds.

Additionally the parks surrounding some of the lakes provide habitat for sizeable populations of black rhino, Rothschild’s giraffe, greater kudu, lion, cheetah and wild dogs.

  • Lake Turkana – the largest of the Kenyan Lakes, occupies the northern end of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya.
  • Lake Logipi –  a shallow soda lake fed by a hot spring, just south of Turkana.
  • Lake Baringo – the second largest Kenyan Rift Lake.
  • Lake Bogoria – a shallow soda lake within a game reserve.
  • Lake Nakuru – a shallow soda lake within a national park since 1968.
  • Lake Elementaita – alkaline lake.
  • Lake Naivasha –  the highest of Kenya’s Rift Lakes.
  • Lake Magadi – shallow soda lake that is the most southern of the Kenyan Rift Lakes.

Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita host one of the world’s most diverse bird populations, including thirteen threatened species.

These lakes are hugely significant sites for Lesser Flamingos and Great White Pelicans. Other populations of international significance include Black-necked Grebe, African Spoonbill, Pied Avocet, Little Grebe, Yellow-billed Stork, Grey-headed Gull, Black-winged Stilt and Gull-billed Tern.

Game Parks 

  • Lake Nakuru National Park – famous for its huge flamingo populations and home to Rothschild giraffes, as well as black and white rhino and more.
  • Hell’s Gate National Park – walking is allowed in this compact park, hosting interesting geological features and a wide variety of wildlife and birds.
  • Lake Naivasha – home to numerous hippos, monkeys, and over 400 different bird species, including flamingos, as well as zebra, impala, giraffe and more.
  • Lake Bogoria – known for its hot springs and geysers, hosts vast populations of lesser flamingoes, and a variety of game and other birds and wildlife.

Read Also: Mount Kenya

  • Lake Manyara National Park – scenic lake on the North Tanzania safari circuit, hosting huge baboon troops, a great diversity of birds and wildlife.

Introduction Mombasa Travel Guide

Mombasa travel guide: The main gateway to this exceptional coastline is Mombasa, which is the second largest city in Kenya, and vies with Dar es Salaam in Tanzania as the busiest port in East Africa.

Mombasa’s mixture of India, Arabia and Africa is uniquely enchanting, and plenty of traffic discover themselves falling for East Africa’s largest and maximum cosmopolitan port.

Indeed, the town dubbed in Swahili Kisiwa Cha Mvita – the Island of War – has many faces, from the ecstatic ardour of the decision to prayer over the Old Town.

Mombasa City

To the waves crashing towards the coral seashores beneath Fort Jesus and the sight of a Zanzibar-sure dhow slipping over the horizon.

As the Swahili human beings themselves say in an vintage proverb: ‘Mombasa is famous, however its waters are dangerously deep.

Food and Drinks

Swahili delicacies capabilities plenty of sparkling fish, aromatic rice, and seafood curries in addition to Arabic and Indian influences. Specialties encompass barbecued meat, a highly spiced tomato savor called kachumbari, mandazi savory dough balls, and cooked bananas.

voyager-beach-resort-Mombasa

Dishes are flavored with coconut, tamarind, and plenty of spices however there also are masses of worldwide alternatives too.

Some of the delicious meals in Mombasa

Nyama Choma (roast meat, commonly goat or beef) is a favorite in Kenya, with ugali (porridge) at the facet, and in case you fancy attempting a brand new drink, the coast is famed for its palm wine.

Beach with palms in Kenya, Tiwi beach.

How to get there

By train

Mombasa travel guide: The city is also accessible by train from Nairobi, with two departures daily in each direction. The actual schedule is available at Madaraka express The old train connection between Mombasa and Nairobi (13h train ride overnight) stopped running in May 2017.

The new connection is much faster (about 6h), but the railway station in Mombasa is not in the city center anymore, but about 15 km outside Mombasa. Online booking is not available yet (in December 2017).

You can buy tickets at the train station or under the local number 0709388888. The first class costs 3,000 KSH, and the second class 1000 KSH, which is cheaper than the buses. Therefore you should book as early as possible (up to 14 days in advance) during the high and holiday seasons.

By plane: The airport in Mombasa has been newly renovated and has extended the frequency of flights inside and outside of Mombasa from European cities. Kenya Airways gives the maximum as some distance as alternatives for touring to/from Mombasa.

Ocean view

Attractions in Mombasa

  • Nyali Beach
  • Fort Jesus Museum
  • Wild Waters
  • Mombasa marine national park
  • Mama ngina’s drive
  • Bamburi beach
  • Old town.

Crime in Kenya

Mombasa travel guide: Crime is not unusual to place in foremost cities, coastal seaside resorts, northern Kenya (along with the North Eastern province), the northern components of Eastern, Coastal, and Rift Valley provinces, and north of Malindi.

There’s no want to be paranoid and alternate your journey plans – simply heed the recommendation of your Government.

Exercise not unusual place feel and take precautions in which viable to keep away from crime as you’ll everywhere you journey: hold valuables out of sight, best convey the number of coins you may want for one day, do not stroll by myself at night.

Introduction to Nairobi Travel Guide

Nairobi travel guide: its nature and the animals that inhabit it are always close to NairobiKenya with a national park within the city limits and many places like the Giraffe Centre, Mamba Village Crocodile Farms, and others where you can get up close and personal with Kenyan wildlife.

But this is also a city with a thriving future and a healthy contemporary arts and culture scene, which you can visit at places like the Banana Hill Art Gallery and the Paa Ya Paa Art and Cultural Center.

The legendary setting and modern towers combine to create the fascinating contemporary city that Nairobi has become.

The reason why visit Kenya

Nairobi travel guide: Its Lush Landscape Nairobi remains lush. green city despite its rapid growth. And there are many parks where you can enjoy the beauty of the region.

Including Jeevanje Gardens, where the landscaped gardens include sculptures and other installations, as well as the Karura Forest Reserve located on the outskirts of town. With a bamboo forest, waterfalls, trails, and the Mau Mau caves to explore Safari in town.

You can arrange a photo safari to the nearby countryside but you must leave town don’t leave them to enjoy Just 20 minutes from the city center, see zebra, wildebeest, lion, giraffe and other famous East African animals at Nairobi National Park.

When to go

Nairobi travel guide: Nairobi can be visited any time of the year, but you should avoid the rainy seasons of mid-March to late May (long rains) and late October to December (short rains) as roads in rural areas can get flooded. Which makes traveling outside of the city difficult and time-consuming.

The best time of year to visit is between June and October (when it’s dry and cool) or January and February (when it’s dry and hot).

However, these are the times when safaris are at their most expensive. To avoid high prices, consider visiting in the off-season when both prices and weather are more reasonable.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Nairobi is not difficult, but it can be very expensive. The main question is which zone suits your needs.

The Central Business District is convenient for walking distance to shops and some offices (although many shops, embassies, and other offices aren’t here).

While if you’re further afield you may need transportation or head to the nearest mall have to leave. Travelers gather at different places in the city and many visitors Never set foot in the middle of CBD.

All the top-of-the-variety locations and maximum backpacker haunts have guarded or enclosed parking – the simplest cheap, city-center accommodations are trouble in this respect.

Naturally, depart not anything of fee withinside the vehicle, or connected to it – which includes spare wheels, jerricans, or roof boxes. Wi-Fi is an increasing number of full-size in Nairobi, and all however the most inexpensive resorts must have it.

Food to eat in Nairobi

Nairobi travel guide: Sukuma Wiki: Sukuma wiki (which in English is referred to as collard vegetables or kale) is the maximum famous inexperienced vegetable eaten at some stage in Nairobi and Kenya.

Ugali: Ugali is generally crafted from floor cornmeal (however the staple also can be made with sorghum or cassava) this is cooked right into a thick paste and is diagnosed as Kenya’s countrywide starch. Many Kenyans devour ugali every day.

Beans: Forms of beans are cooked with a small little bit of tomatoes and onions to create a pleasing bean dish with a sauce that is going terrific with ugali, chapatis, or rice.

Nyama Choma (Roasted Meat): There’s not anything as proper as Kenyan roasted meat at a neighborhood joint! Look right here for the pleasant nyama choma in Nairobi.

Chai: Despite the Kenyan espresso reputation, it’s tea which is the maximum famous warm beverage in Nairobi.

Attractions in Nairobi

  • Nairobi National Park
  • Giraffe Centre
  • Sheldrick Wildlife trust.
  • Karen Blixen museum
  • Bomas of Kenya
  • Nairobi national museum
  • Kenyatta international convention center
  • Kenya National Archives
  • Kibera

Conclusion

Nairobi travel guide: I really hope this information can assist you with some tips and advice on visiting Nairobi – one of my favorite cities in the world!.

About Bonfire Adventures and Events Limited

Bonfire Adventures and Events Limited is a Kenyan tour company that specializes in providing tour packages, safaris, and event planning services. The company was founded in 2008 by Simon Kabu and his wife, Sarah Kabu. It has since grown to become one of the leading tour and event planning companies in East Africa.

Bonfire Adventures

Bonfire Adventures has won several awards for its services, including the World Travel Awards for Africa’s Leading Tour Operator in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The company has also been recognized by the Kenya Tourism Board for its contribution to the development of local tourism in Kenya.

Office Location

Yala Towers, 4th Floor, Junction of Koinange and Biashara street.

Bonfire Adventures Services

Here are some of the services they provide:

  • Tour packages: Bonfire Adventures offers a wide range of tour packages, including domestic and international travel, adventure tours, beach holidays, wildlife safaris, and cultural tours. They cater to different budgets and preferences, and their packages can be customized to suit the specific needs of their clients.
  • Event planning: They provides event planning services for a variety of events, including corporate events, weddings, parties, and conferences. They can handle all aspects of event planning, including venue selection, decoration, catering, entertainment, and transportation.
  • Accommodation booking: The company assist in booking accommodation for their clients for both domestic or international travel. They have partnerships with a range of hotels and lodges, and can recommend the best options based on their clients’ preferences.
  • Visa processing: For international travel, Bonfire Adventures can assist with visa processing, helping clients navigate the sometimes complex and time-consuming process of obtaining a visa.
  • Transport services: The company offers transport services for their clients, including airport transfers, car rentals, and chauffeur services.
  • Philanthropy: Through their Foundation, the company provides educational support and opportunities for children in underserved communities in Kenya.

Contacts

WEBSITE: www.bonfireadventures.com

ADDRESS: Yala Towers, Koinange Street, Nairobi, Kenya

PHONE: (+254) 711 222 444

EMAIL: deals@bonfireadventures.com

About Ashnil Aruba Lodge

Ashnil Aruba Lodge is a popular safari lodge located in the heart of the Tsavo East National Park in Kenya. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Aruba Dam, which is a watering hole that attracts a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal location for game viewing.

The Lodge is located in a picturesque and serene area of Tsavo East National Park, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Ashnil Aruba Lodge offers something for everyone.

Ashnil Aruba Lodge Accommodation and rates

Lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and tents.

The standard rooms are spacious and equipped with modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and private balconies or verandas.

The deluxe rooms are larger and more luxurious, with additional features such as a lounge area and a Jacuzzi.

The tents are also spacious and well-appointed, with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The rates for accommodation the Lodge vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation chosen. Generally, rates start at around $180 per person per night for a standard room and can go up to $350 per person per night for a deluxe room or tent.

Activities

Guided game drives

  • Game Drives
  • Nature Walks
  • Bird Watching
  • Sundowners
  • Cultural Visits

Location

Ashnil Aruba Lodge is located in Voi. The area’s natural beauty can be seen at Tsavo West National Park and Tsavo East National Park Entrance.

Swimming Pool

After your recreation power, you could take a dip in our swimming pool or sincerely loosen up with the aid of using the pool which overlooks the sports park. This is an appropriate area to loosen up and laze around withinside the calm afternoons.

Facilities Available

  • Lounge Bar
  • Conferencing
  • Swimming Pool
  • Business Service
  • Restaurant and Dining
  • Souvenir Shop.

About Aruba Mara Camp

Araba Mara Camp is a tented camp on the Talek River, next to the Talek Gate in the northern Maasai Mara. From Nairobi drive 260 km through Narok. Right outside the gate so no parking fee if not on safari. 

Additionally, we even have a spacious campsite with facilities like kitchen/dining, lavatories and warm water shower, security, carwash, firewood, and laundry service.

Nature walks, going to of cultural village, bird watching and hot air balloon is available. Bush breakfast, sundowner, and full day drive with Lunch on request. A shuttle transfer from Nairobi may be arranged.

Accommodation

The Mara features 7 furnished tents with wooden decking, brick and tile bathrooms, a king-size bed with mosquito net, and 24-hour hot running water. All our tents have a river view and a fantastic view of the park.

The camp also has 5 smaller budget tents with 2 queen size beds (extra bed possible), hot water, and toilets in the camp. Aruba Mara Camp also has a camp for campers. The camp is located in a large area shaded by trees.

In addition to plenty of space for your tent, the campsite also offers small thatched roof tents and a small veranda. For groups of up to 40 guests, Aruba offers a quiet, private campground in the East. The camp has small tents at reasonable prices and they have the following.

Activities

Full-day game drives
Bird Walk
Nature Walk
Balloon Safari
Trip to the Sand River or Mara river
Bush breakfast
Bush picnic
Sundowner.

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The lodge offers accommodation in spacious and well-appointed tents, each with an en-suite bathroom, hot showers, and comfortable beds.

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge

The lodge’s location in the Maasai Mara National Reserve provides guests with a unique opportunity to witness the annual wildebeest migration. This is one of the world’s most spectacular natural events. The reserve is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras, making it a popular destination for safari enthusiasts.

Facilities/Activities

The Lodge offers a range of facilities and amenities for guests to enjoy during their stay. Some of these include:

  1. Accommodation: The lodge offers luxurious and well-appointed tents, each with an en-suite bathroom, hot showers, and comfortable beds. The tents are spacious and provide a comfortable and authentic African experience.
  2. Restaurant and Bar: The lodge’s restaurant serves a variety of delicious local and international cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options. The bar offers a selection of beverages, including beers, wines, and cocktails.
  3. Swimming Pool: The lodge features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of game drives or other activities.
  4. Spa: The lodge has a spa offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and other beauty therapies. The spa provides a tranquil and serene environment for guests to unwind and relax.
  5. Game Drives and Safari Activities: Guests can enjoy a variety of safari activities, including game drives, guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages. The lodge’s expert guides will provide a unique and educational safari experience.
  6. Conference Facilities: The lodge also has conference facilities, making it an ideal location for business meetings, corporate events, and team-building activities.

Accommodation

A range of accommodation options are provided this includes:

  1. Deluxe Tents: The Deluxe tents are spacious and well-appointed, with an en-suite bathroom, hot showers, and comfortable beds. The tents are decorated with local Maasai art and furnishings, providing a unique and authentic African experience.
  2. Family Tents: The Family tents are larger and can accommodate up to four people. They feature an en-suite bathroom, hot showers, and comfortable beds. The tents are perfect for families or groups traveling together.
  3. Honeymoon Suite: The Honeymoon Suite is a luxurious and romantic tent, perfect for couples. It features a large king-size bed, a private outdoor bathtub, and a spacious veranda with stunning views of the reserve.

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge Charges

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge charges vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation selected. This includes all meals, non-alcoholic drinks, game drives, and other safari activities.

The rates for the Deluxe tents start at around $370 per night, while the rates for the Family tents start at around $470 per night. The rates for the Honeymoon Suite start at around $500 per night.

These rates are subject to change, so it is always advisable to check with the lodge for the latest rates and availability.

How to get there

The lodge can be accessed by air or by road.

By Air: The nearest airport to the lodge is Mara Serena Airport. It is located about 30 minutes away by road. Daily flights are available from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, and other airports in Kenya

By Road: Guests can also reach the lodge by road. The journey from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The lodge is accessible via the Narok and Sekenani gates.

Best time to visit Jambo Mara Safari Lodge

This depends on what you would like to see and experience during your safari. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a year-round destination. Here are some factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit:

Wildlife Viewing: The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from July to October when animals tend to gather around water sources.

The Great Migration: The wildebeest migration is one of the world’s most spectacular natural events. This is when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing. The best time to witness the migration is from July to September.

Bird Watching: The best time for bird watching is during the rainy season from November to April when migrant birds visit the region.

Overall, the best time to visit Jambo Mara Safari Lodge is from July to October, during the dry season when wildlife viewing is at its best, and the wildebeest migration is in full swing.

Location

Taita Hills Safari Resort and Spa is located at the primary front to the Sanctuary.

The hotel is an inviting stone construction of 60 spacious rooms and suites, all with their very own personal viewing balcony.

Taita Hills Logo

It has a museum that shows a number of the World War 1 memorabilia as a part of the wealthy records of Taita Taveta County.

Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is positioned at the primary front to the Taita Hills Sanctuary in South Eastern Kenya.

Additionally, 400 km from Nairobi and 200 km from Mombasa. An hour flight from Nairobi or 30 min from Mombasa through personal constitution lands on the hotel’s very own airstrip.

The sanctuary is a 3-hour force from Mombasa and a 6-hour force from Nairobi on tarmac roads.

The Dinning

Room Facilities

  • Spacious rooms with full size beds
  • Private bathroom with bath and shower
  • Private balcony with garden views
  • Baby sitting services
  • Daily laundry service.

Affordable Accommodations

Game Viewing

Those who want to self-power on a Kenya holiday can accomplish that withinside the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Which has some of properly marked routes, rangers are to be had as escorts if required. The Sanctuary is domestic to Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, Leopard, Buffalo, Giraffe and Zebra and lots of more.

Read Also: Ndololo Tented Camp

Birding is superb with over 300 species of hen which include Ostrich, Eagle and Vulture.

Swimming Pool Area

Close with the aid of using is the Tsavo West National Park that’s well-known for its massive Elephant herds, their skins stained crimson from dirt bathing withinside the ochre colored sand.

 

 

Climbing Mt Kenya is a thrilling and challenging adventure that attracts many outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Here are some key facts, routes, and charges for climbing Mt. Kenya:

Climbing Mt Kenya

Facts:

  • Mt. Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa, after Kilimanjaro, with its highest peak, Batian, standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet).
  • Mt. Kenya is a stratovolcano, and its last eruption occurred about 3 million years ago.
  • Mt. Kenya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected area in Kenya, with diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Mount Kenya bush viper and the Mount Kenya mole-rat.

Mt Kenya Routes:

There are several routes to climb Mt. Kenya, ranging from easy to difficult, and the choice of route depends on one’s fitness level, climbing experience, and personal preference. Some of the popular routes include:

Sirimon Route

This is the easiest and most scenic route, and it starts from the northwest side of the mountain. It takes about 4-5 days to climb and is ideal for beginners.

Chogoria Route

This is the most scenic and beautiful route, and it starts from the east side of the mountain. It takes about 5-6 days to climb and requires some technical skills.

Naro Moru Route

This is the shortest and most popular route, and it starts from the west side of the mountain. It takes about 3-4 days to climb, but it is steep and requires a good level of fitness.

Burguret Route

This is the least used and most challenging route, and it starts from the north side of the mountain. It takes about 6-7 days to climb and requires a high level of fitness and mountaineering experience.

Charges:

Climbing Mt. Kenya requires a permit, which can be obtained from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) or authorized tour operators. The permit fees vary depending on the route and the number of days. Here are some approximate charges:

  1. Sirimon Route: $220 for non-residents, KES 5,500 for Kenyan residents, and KES 1,500 for East African residents.
  2. Chogoria Route: $280 for non-residents, KES 6,500 for Kenyan residents, and KES 1,800 for East African residents.
  3. Naro Moru Route: $200 for non-residents, KES 4,500 for Kenyan residents, and KES 1,200 for East African residents.
  4. Burguret Route: $300 for non-residents, KES 6,500 for Kenyan residents, and KES 1,800 for East African residents.

In addition to the permit fees, climbers also need to pay for other expenses, such as park fees, camping fees, guide and porter fees, and transportation costs.

Best time to climb Mt Kenya

The best time to climb Mount Kenya is during the dry season, which is typically from January to March and from July to October. During this period, the weather is generally clear and dry, with lower chances of rain, and the trails are less muddy and easier to hike. The temperatures during the day are mild, usually ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), while at night, they can drop below freezing, especially at higher altitudes.