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And now for something completely different. Something that involves all the joys of a safari, but with a different twist. Of course, we’re not trying to steer you away from the normal safari routine of game drives in the morning and the afternoon, but if you’re the type of person looking for that extra bit, or have a passion for something, like painting, or are really into your fitness and want to see, explore and experience doing something you love in a different location, then we hope we can tempt you with some different experiences whilst enjoying your safari at the same time.
Before we dive into some experiences, we wanted to make you aware of a new house within Kenya, that some of these experiences take place. Laragai House is a country home in the wilderness and is the perfect home from home for long stays and house parties! Laragai offers and ‘all inclusive’, exclusive experience within the beautiful Borana Conservancy – one of the most picturesque conservancies throughout Kenya. Uncrowded and pristine, this fabulous property is situated on the northern side of the conservancy, overlooking incredible vistas of both north and west. It offers more beds than any of the other exclusive properties on Borana.
Combine 4 night’s stay at Laragai House with 4 night’s stay on the coast at the stunning Manda Bay. Unlike anywhere else on the coast, Manda Bay is a safari lodge but on the beach. It offers guests the same hosted experience as Laragai House, but activities are planned around the tides and the best time to enjoy the water-based activities and excursions whilst leaving the end of the day to visit the small piece of wilderness behind the lodge for game drives and sundowner excursions. Meals are served al fresco and outdoors and the menu decided on each say to serve the freshest of fish and locally caught seafood, prepared to the highest standards. Manda Bay is safari wilderness – the jewel on the coast, quiet, unfussy, chic and pretty bloody fabulous!
Now for those experiences!
The ’10-2-4’ Mountain Bike Challenge, 18th – 20th February 2022.
This exciting challenge is a downhill bicycle race for anyone and everyone. It starts at 10,000ft above sea level and finishes at 4,000ft below sea level (hence the title ’10-2-4’!) There are many categories for both adults and children and it is in aid of the Mt Kenya Trust, a charitable organisation which takes charge of caring for the conservation of Mt. Kenya and its importance for the migration wildlife, surrounding natural habitat and forestry. If this experience tickles your fancy, then you can’t hang around, let us know if you would like to register yourself and book for this fabulous alternative safari!
Painting Workshop/Course, 14th – 19th November 2022
A 5 night stay at Manda Bay which offers the chance to embark on a painting and drawing course with Frances Simpson. Franny is an accomplished Kenyan born artist who has a loose, free flowing, contemporary style gives life and colour to the African landscape and people whom she captures so cleverly on canvas. Her teaching not only gives and insight to the possibilities of one’s own ability, but a different perspective and detail to one’s visual senses that can often be overlooked.
Birdwatchers Safari, 1st – 9th December 2022
A 9-day safari with 4 nights at Laragai House and 4 nights at Manda Bay with the world renowned Orthithologist and author Terry Stevenson. Terry is perhaps the most sought-after birding guide in East Africa though he guides all over the world. This is a once in a lifetime chance to learn from the best of the best. The closing date to book your space on this experience is the 31st of July.
Wellness Retreats, May & November 2022
On the horizon is a 10-day Mind, Body and Soul wellness week combining Laragai House and Manda Bay, offering adventurous, busy, soul searching and spirited travellers a chance to up-level and ground down to balance and rejuvenate through an incredible safari. There is also a shorter 6-night Safari Retreat at Laragai and a 6-night Beach Retreat at Manda Bay on offer too.
There is also a wonderful honeymoon package available as well as full weeks fishing at Manda Bay if fishing is something you would love to focus on. Do get in contact to find out some more information about any of the above experiences you may wish to book. It’s fair to say, if you were stuck for choices as to what to do to make your safari experience a little alternative, you won’t be anymore!