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Dream Destinations - Kenya |
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Danielle Wilkins dreams of getting back to nature in Kenya |
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WILD AT HEART
Lots of adventure mixed with plenty of time to relax and rejuvenate. That's my dream honeymoon. And the reasons why I'm jetting off to Kenya? Think beautiful scenery and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore local animal hang-outs. Not to mention the stunning beaches, warm waters and wonderful accommodation out in the open air.
For years Kenya has captured the hearts and imaginations of adventure-seekers everywhere, and with the wonderful safari facilities available, it's easy to see why. Game reserves give a great chance to get up close and personal with the wildlife roaming free in its natural surroundings.
The reserves have great concentrations of elephants and hippos, leopards and zebras, and I couldn't think of anything more exciting than getting up in the morning, enjoying a delicious breakfast and setting off on a game drive with people who know the local area like the back of their hand, then watching the animals as they make their way to the watering holes and the lions warming themselves in the early morning sun.
Most game reserves have their own private lodges too, overlooking the beautiful savannah. This would give me the perfect opportunity to spend some romantic time together with my new husband as Mr and Mrs, watching the technicolor sunset while sipping a glass of the bubbly stuff. Bliss!
Island of Lamu
Just off the coast of northern Kenya is the medieval town and islands of Lamu, which has now been listed as a prestigious World Heritage site. A great time to visit is during the three-day Lamu Cultural Festival, each November, which showcases traditional dances, displays of handcrafted items and music and theatre performances from local artists. If you want to visit the historic side of Kenya, Lamu is definitely the place to go. Its narrow streets remained unchanged, and the bustling markets are wonderful. There are also no vehicles on the island. www.lamuheritage.org
Wildebeest Migration
From July to October nearly 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra venture on their yearly migration to greener pastures, and observing it is certainly an experience you won't forget. As rain brings the grasslands of the Maasai Mara to life, the wildebeest can be heard from miles and miles away as they thunder across the Kenyan border. You will also see the zebra swept up in the flow of it all, and the banks of the Mara river burst and swell as the animals fight to get across.
Kijani Festival
Each year the Kijani Kenya Trust organises the fabulous Kijani Festival to Nairobi National Park and Mount Kenya, which brings together famous artists and performing arts groups from all over the country to raise funds to support conservation and HIV and AIDS projects in Kenya. www.kijanikenyatrust.org
Flight duration: 10 hours
Best time to go: June to September
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