BUSH SAFARI

A bush safari, also known as a wildlife safari or game drive, is an exciting and immersive experience that allows you to explore and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Here are some key aspects of a bush safari:

1. Destination: Bush safaris typically take place in national parks, game reserves, or wildlife conservancies that are known for their diverse and abundant animal populations. Popular destinations for bush safaris include famous parks in Africa, such as the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Chobe National Park in Botswana.
2. Wildlife Viewing: The primary focus of a bush safari is wildlife viewing. From the comfort of a specially designed safari vehicle, guided by experienced rangers or trackers, you have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of animals in their natural habitats. This may include sightings of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species.
3. Game Drives: Game drives are the most common way to explore wildlife during a bush safari. These are typically conducted in open-top 4×4 vehicles that provide excellent visibility and allow for close encounters with animals. Game drives usually take place during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active, and the lighting conditions are favorable for photography.
4. Accommodations: Bush safaris offer a range of accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences. These can range from luxury lodges and tented camps to more basic campsites. Some lodges and camps are situated within or near wildlife-rich areas, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of the wilderness even when you’re not out on a game drive.
5. Night Safaris: In addition to daytime game drives, some safari destinations offer the option of night safaris. These guided excursions take place after sunset, using spotlights to search for nocturnal animals, such as lions, hyenas, and other elusive creatures that become active after dark. Night safaris provide a unique perspective on the wildlife and offer opportunities to witness unique behaviors.
6. Cultural Experiences: Many bush safari destinations also provide opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about their traditional cultures and customs. This can include visits to local villages, cultural performances, or interactions with indigenous tribes, adding a rich cultural element to your safari experience.

Bush safaris offer an incredible chance to connect with nature, witness the beauty of wildlife, and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems in which these animals thrive. It is an adventure that creates lasting memories and a profound appreciation for the natural world.

KAREN GABLES 

A charming, characterful and luxurious new boutique guest house, quietly situated in one of Nairobi’s best neighborhoods, Karen Gables is a world away from the hubbub of central Nairobi and close to the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre and all the other attractions of the area. With its prominent twin gables and broad porch, this boutique property is unmistakable. Karen Gables delivers all the warmth and charm associated with its classic Cape Dutch facade – mornings on the veranda sipping coffee, delicious breakfasts with homemade breads and jams, evenings by the fire. Set in the upmarket suburb of Karen in southwest Nairobi, the hotel lies peacefully in its surrounding greenery, undisturbed by the traffic jams and chaos of other parts of the city. And there’s something of the old colonial atmosphere in the air. There is a small but professional staff who look after your every need, from your in-house experience to your airport shuttle and adventures in Nairobi. The gardens ramble, alive with mature trees, rolling lawns, a gentle river and offer plenty of places to enjoy tea or a quiet and restful place to enjoy that good book. There are seven double rooms in this rambling house, each with a different vantage on the garden. All have large windows with oodles of natural light, en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, and an abundance of unique character. With classic features such as window seats, wood-paneled walls, skylights and French doors, they’re undeniably charming. Second-storey rooms have a balcony, while those on the ground floor lead into the garden. 

SOSIAN RANCH 

Sosian Ranch House sits on a 24,000 acre private ranch in Laikipia. The ranch house was built in the 1940s by Italian artisans and in recent years was beautifully restored to accommodate up to 14 people in the atmosphere of a private home. The 7 cottages each have their own private veranda and en-suite bathroom, and the lodge has a swimming pool, tennis court, and organic vegetable garden. 

 Sosian is more about the activities than a traditional safari experience. You will see game including elephants, lions and maybe wild dogs, but the area does not have the density of the Maasai Mara. Sosian Ranch is terrific for active people and activities include game drives and walks, horseback riding, camelback riding and tubing; those brave enough can even jump off a waterfall! Guests can end each day in a different, stunning sundowner spot. With so much to see and do here, the property is great for kids and offers a break from non-stop game drives. 

The cottages themselves are comfortably appointed, with soft bedding, electricity and running water, all of which can offer a welcoming change in an itinerary that is full of tented camps. Comfortable accommodation and a relaxed environment make Soisan a good value for money property, suitable for everyone, and great for families.