MattieWils

G'day Folks

My old dad and I are hiring a 4x4 and driver for ten days in Kenya in June.

The places we want to see are:

Samburu (a must)

Lake Bogoria (if that's where the flamingos are)

Lake Navaisha and Crescent Island

Masai Mara

Amboseli

Is that a bit ambitious for ten days, if so what can anyone suggest?

We also need suggestions for budget accommodation, especially in Samburu, lodges or tented camps preferably, and with beds because my old dad's back won't stand up to regular camping.

After the safari, we'll be in Mombasa for a few days on business, but we'd like to make a short visit, a couple of days to Tsavo East, can anyone recommend an operator who could help us with that?

Does the Nairobi to Mombasa train still run? If so when?

Thanks

Mattie and his dad

Patty

I think that's too ambitious for 10 days especially on a driving itinerary. I'd probably drop Amboseli. Samburu, Rift Valley lakes and the Mara is do-able with 10 days.

Maybe look at Samburu Game Lodge.

Try Southern Cross Safaris from Mombasa. They operate their own camp, Satao Camp, in Tsavo East.

peg

Just came back from Lake Naivasha and there were thousands of flamingos all over the lake.

msmallet07

Was just wondering how safe would be such a travel in terms of criminality/police, road gangs etc. Are locals friendly?

Do you use any local agent to organize this?

sandi

Why do you want to do a self-drive? It's easy enough to arrange your visit with an outfitter who will provide guide, vehicle, book hotels/lodges/camps, handle the park fees, arrange meet/greet and handle all transfers.

The guide knows where he's going and what to look for as far as game is concerned, rather than you trying to do both. Knows the roads, any police/security stops, etc. Price can be as competitive and probably even better.

As Patty mentions, if visiting Samburu, no reason to also visit Amboseli. The rest is doable.

Good luck.

Patty

Sandi,
I don't think the OP is self driving.

<i>My old dad and I are hiring a 4x4 and driver</i>

msmallet07,
I've traveled by road many times in Kenya and felt very safe. Yes I would use a local tour operator to organize this.

MattieWils

Thanks a lot for all the advice folks, I'll look into your suggestions.

MattieWils

Oh I forgot to say that the driver is an Kenyan fellow who is very experienced at taking people on safari.

sandi

Patty - my ooops, read too quickly!

pody22

Mattiewils,
There is a train service from Nairobi to Mombasa every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Departing Nairobi at 1900hrs and arriving Mombasa at 0830 hrs. I would recommend http://speedbirdsafaris.com/safari/ as your reliable safari outfitter.They will be able to arrange all the safari needs for you including the train booking. They also use Land Cruisers for their safaris.

Thanks

msmallet07

Anyone had contacts with http://tripcook.com/ts--Kenya--momba...in_travel--607 ?
I sent them a request and received a good travel quote, but I am not sure how reliable they are. The Tripcook.com website gives them a good rating, but I could not find traveler's comments.