Avoid the crowds in East Africa – 4 Remote Nature Conservancies

In the travelers imagination, Kenya and Tanzania have always been the embodiment of the continent, from the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the renowned Apex of Kilimanjaro. Outside of these iconic sites, however, there is so much more to be discovered. The recent Travel and Leisure article, featuring some of our colleagues and partners from Safari Pros, highlights some of the more unique and private experiences one can have in these romantic destinations. And luckily for the team at Africa Endeavours, several of our travel consultants have first hand experience at these incredible locales.

Sarara
Located in the remote and beautiful Mathew Range, and set within 850,000 acres of the Namunyak Wildlife Reserve, Sarara offers game drives, walking, and daily visits to the community run elephant orphanage, Reteti. Another special experience is a visit to the “singing wells”, an age old tradition where the Samburu gather to water their herds and is an integral part of daily life.

I loved the remoteness of Sarara and the stunning beauty of the place. Of course, it’s hard to beat the visit to the elephant orphanage, but the real highlight for me was my local guide Kalamon. He taught me so much about his culture and family. We are still in touch, and I love getting his updates. Takes me right back to that magical visit – Candice, Product Manager

Lewa Wilderness
With Mt. Kenya looming in the background, Lewa offers a stunning setting for some pretty epic game viewing. Not only are there plenty of opportunities to see black and white rhino, one can even catch a glimpse of the usual suspects (Big 5 like elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo). It’s also home to the unique Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra, and Reticulated Giraffe, all found only in Northern Kenya. And the ways to view game are plentiful; game drives, on foot, on a horse, or even a camel! And if you are really lucky, you can catch an aerial view of the game in an iconic bi-plane straight from a scene in Out of Africa.

For me, one of my absolute highlights was the safari by Bi-Plane. To see the breathtaking green savannas and mountain ranges, as well as the herds of animals while in the air, truly gives you a birds eye perspective of the world below – Vanessa, Luxury Travel Designer

Sanctuary Olonana
This is the place to go if you want luxury in the bush! It’s set on a private stretch of the Mara river, so you get all the benefits of the Maasai Mara but without many of the crowds. Activities include game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, balloon and scenic flights. It’s also a perfect location for viewing the wildebeest migration during the peak season.

On my recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania, Olonana was absolutely a highlight for me, my family and friends. Being perched right on the Mara River, the views from the property were stunning. And not only did we feel especially pampered by the luxury of the property, including the meals, but the connection with the staff was very special. Corinne, Owner

Chem Chem
Set in an exclusive concession between Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara, it is the ideal location to explore both icons of Tanzania. It is also all about the slow safari – track game on foot, watch the sunset from your private deck, learn about the Masai culture with a local village visit. And while game drives are certainly an option, it’s also a great place to immerse yourself in your surroundings and take it all in.

The beautiful, open plains with mountains in the distance provide a sense of serenity as soon as you arrive. There are two large lounge/fire pit areas that overlook their watering hole. Being able to gather there in the evenings with a glass of wine or G&T and chat about your day is a perfect way to end each night. During the day, grab a book, settle in among the pillows, and enjoy that same spot while watching the various animals come to drink from the watering hole. The open spaces also allow for a different type of game viewing, one that isn’t as hurried – hence their motto of the “slow safari.” The nearby lakes offer an additional beauty and calmness that permeates the whole experience. – Katie, Luxury Travel Designer

Are you dreaming of an African Adventure? Please reach out and we’d be happy to assist.

And make sure to check out the article on this incredible destination.