Go low

If the end of the Christmas holiday has left you looking forward to spring and summer for your next chance to get away, you might want to consider planning a trip to East Africa. The April-June period is often overlooked as a time to visit the region because of the wet weather it brings. But those in the know realise that, in many ways, that the low season has several compelling advantages. It’s certainly one of our favourite times to explore both our favourite haunts and unknown reaches of East Africa.

The fact is that the rain which deters most isn’t as forbidding as some would expect. It doesn’t pour continually and is nothing like monsoon rainfall in intensity. Undeniably, it’s wetter during these months, although there’s no guarantee of enjoying drier weather outside the wet season, as last year’s unpredictable seasonal timings attested.

And there are some persuasive upsides. Firstly, the low season means lower prices. Great discounts are available at many hotels and lodges and even on some flights. Even more alluringly for travellers who like their space, it means lower tourist densities. So it’s easier to secure bookings at the best lodges and camps – which may be a telling factor as our accommodation contacts are reporting an especially rapid uptake of places for the high season later this year. And even the most popular game parks and conservancies can be relatively quiet. There’s also less competition for frequently oversubscribed activities such as gorilla trekking.

Baby elephants - one of the attractions
of our imminent Spring Break Safari

Coming in the off-peak months definitely doesn’t mean compromising on the experience. There will still be amazing game viewing, and the plethora of other cultural and adventure pursuits which complete a safari holiday. In fact, with fewer other tourists about, the spring can be the best time to soak up the atmosphere of Africa in serenity and to really appreciate its wilderness with minimal distraction.

And talking of the spring, we’d like to remind you that there is just time to book a place on our Special Spring Break Safari from March 3-10. We’ve compiled an extraordinary selection of wildlife watching, cultural encounters and sublime luxury at some of Kenya’s finest camps and hotels. So if you’re still looking for your dream holiday this spring, grab one of our limited places while you still can. Click here for full details.

Spring Break action

If the dreary winter evenings leave you day-dreaming about escaping to somewhere sunnier in the New Year, a special Spring Break Safari we’ve lined up might be just what you need. Running from March 3-10, this week-long itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to showcase the cream of Kenya’s attractions. And every part of this adventure has been chosen for its child-friendly features, so it makes the ideal family safari.

Rhinos are among the attractions
at Lewa Downs

The game-viewing experience combines the best of two worlds – the exclusivity of the esteemed Lewa Downs wildlife conservancy, and the awesome, must-see spectacle of the famed Masai Mara. At Lewa Downs, expect to see rhinos, elephants, antelopes, giraffes and a plethora of bird species. These encounters take place in one of Africa’s most beautiful settings, against the backdrop of the snow-capped Mount Kenya. The Masai Mara promises to build on the game-viewing thrills with all of Africa’s coveted Big Five on its roll. With mile-upon-mile of savannah and iconic acacia trees dotted across the landscape, you’ll be in no doubt that you’ve found the African wilderness.

This jam-packed tour also has some seductive extras for guests who fancy something out of the ordinary. A once-in-a-lifetime flight in a classic bi-plane will echo the romantic early days of safari. Hot-air ballooning, horse-riding and fishing excursions are all up for grabs too. And everyone on this trip will get to take part in a fascinating cultural visit to a Masai village.
 

A giraffe making a new friend
at Giraffe Manor

Guests can recover from the excitement of this sense-stimulating schedule in accommodation which is stylish and relaxing, with the attentive and sincere hospitality which always comes with an Africa House safari. The elegant Giraffe Manor not only takes you back in time with its 1930s styling – it also delivers a unique twist of eating breakfast alongside the hotel’s gorgeous resident giraffes.

The luxury continues into the accommodation on camp. At Lewa, the comfortable pool and private raised tents with open verandas ensure that the magnificent scenery is enjoyed to the full. And the Elephant Pepper Camp on the Masai Mara is a beautifully atmospheric eco-camp where top service and campfires under the stars make for amazing memories.

All in all, this special Spring Safari promises some truly magical experiences, which we’re certainly looking forward to. If you can get away this spring, we’d love for you to join us. Click here for details.