Beach or wildlife – no need to choose!

Stunning beaches, vibrant cities, beautiful scenery and an abundance of breathtaking wildlife, welcome to the safari capital of the world.

Dream no more! Kenya is now accessible to lower budgets. Flights from Gatwick, even indirectly, are less than you think. Parking at Gatwick is a useful extra when flying long-haul, saving money and reducing travel stress.

Kenya stands on the equator, guaranteeing hot temperatures, with the hottest in the north-east, hitting 34 degrees. Dry season runs from January – March and July – October. One striking thing is the speed at which it goes dark, one minute it’s light, the next, someone’s turned the lights off!

The capital, Nairobi, is a vibrant city that never rests. A huge variety of nightlife caters for all tastes with restaurants, markets and shopping. Nairobi National Park has an abundance of natural beauty, offering the perfect opportunity to escape the city. If wildlife is your priority, the Sheldrik elephant orphanage offers an educational day out, and for beauty, the imposing Fourteen Falls waterfalls are a must.

Mombasa is an eclectic port town with an old fashioned feel, home to stunning natural beaches, colourful markets, and beautiful religious buildings. Fort Jesus, a UNESCO world heritage site, stands imposing over the harbour, steeped in history.

However, a visit to Kenya wouldn’t be complete without a safari.

Maasai Mara in the south-west is a famous reserve, standing at 200 square miles. Here you will see Massai people hunting in harmony with wildlife, and my, is the wildlife varied. Graceful giraffe, zebra, leaping gazelle and wildebeest dominate the open plains with an abundance of mischievous monkeys and colourful birds calling the forests their home. Towards the wetlands, swaying elephants line the Musiara swamp, and basking hippos while the days away on Talek River. Listen out for a lion’s roar – if you’re lucky, you might see one of these powerful animals.

If land isn’t for you, head to the skies on a balloon safari and see the reserve from the air, offering a breathtaking view of sunset/sunrise, and the inhabitants of this magnificent land. Cycling is also available at Hell’s Gate National Park, and the chance to cycle your way through some of the country’s tamer wildlife!

There are a many different safaris available, depending on your preferences. Many offer breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro, a definite must-see.

Feeling energetic? Trekking to Point Lenana is a popular option. Standing aside Mount Kenya, an important spiritual site, the summit can be reached in a few days, offering wonderful views along the way. Transport is available from Nairobi.

Getting around is easy, with buses and taxis in abundance in large cities, just make sure you agree a price first.

Shopping, wildlife, stunning scenery and relaxing beaches – Kenya is a place that offers everything, and the increased number of flights makes it much more accessible. Airport hotel stays, VIP lounges and airport parking are great extras, with Airparks offering great rates.

A break to Kenya offers the chance to learn Swahili, the local language, observe breathtaking animals in their natural habitat, laze on stunning beaches and haggle in local markets. A visa should be purchased at the airport, but check the up-to-date regulations before travelling. Head to your GP for immunisation advice, and make sure you take malaria precautions.

A safari and beach break is the perfect blend of action and relaxation, and you’ll return with many tales to tell, ready to gaze lovingly at your photographic memories.