Kenya: Now on the travellers' most wanted list

With the FCO’s relaxed travel advisory on Kenya, the destination is well placed for intrepid super stardom, as it crosses over onto the adventurer’s most wanted list. Its short time in the spotlight has certainly not deterred travellers from making plans to visit, in fact, the recent profile raising activity has stirred emotions.

And with people looking to help in any way that they can, responsible travel is set to play a big part in the revival of the local economy. According to Acacia Adventure Holidays, a tour operator, which is reinstating its original itineraries to Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha and launching new tours to the destination in April, things are hotting up in Kenya, and they are not referring to the political situation.

Kate Plummer, Sales and Marketing Co-ordinator at Acacia Adventure Holidays, comments: “The interest in Kenya has never really subsided, however now everything is back on track we are seeing a surge in bookings. April is a great time to go, as travellers will be able to experience some of the best wildlife viewing in East Africa, while also making a timely donation.

“Travellers are acutely aware of the huge contribution that tourism makes to Kenya and this is a major concern for people booking with us – they want to make sure they are making a real difference when they travel.”

Plummer adds: “Those who go to Kenya are frequently taken by the warmth of its people and this is still as strong as ever, but local economies need support getting back on their feet. How you travel is key to driving cash back into any local economy and with a range of overland and small group safaris which ensure interaction with the people of Kenya, adventurers on our tours will be well placed to make a big difference to the welfare of the destination.

“We also have a clearly marked local payment system, so travellers can see the real hard cash that will remain in the hands of the local people. In that sense, Kenya and Acacia Adventure Holidays are made for each other.”

Since the peace deal has been brokered, the tour operator has been compiling a list of the top five trips to Kenya - all of the itineraries ensuring great experiences in Kenya and maximising the opportunity to make a difference.

Kenyan warmth, hospitality and wildlife will overwhelm travellers on the 13-day Great Lakes of Kenya small group safari. A new adventure, departing on April 19, adventurers will have the chance to visit a rural school in the Great Rift Valley and participate in a homestay with the Luo Tribe at Lake Victoria’s, Kendu Bay Village.

A boat trip on Lake Naivasha, wildlife viewing in Lake Nakuru National Park, and game walks through the fascinating eco system of the Kakamega Forest also feature on the itinerary; while a visit to the Masai Mara and cultural experience with the Masai in the Loita Hills are further highlights on this responsibly engineered trip. (£765pp + local payment from £269pp)

Travellers should start booking early for the Masai Walking Safari, as although the first departure date is set for 22 June 2008, the 12-day itinerary incorporates some seductive highlights including, game walking on the scenic crescent island near Lake Naivasha and a six-day trek through the Loita Hills with the red robed Masai.

The trip also features Hell’s Gate National Park, the Masai Mara and a challenge trek to the top of Mount Logonot, (a summit of 2,776m) complete with awe inspiring views over Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley. (£675pp + local payment from £229pp)

75% of Acacia Adventure Holidays overland trips cover Kenya and itineraries commencing in April will come with a little more kick, as the tour operator launches their new Footballs For Fun campaign. Travellers on the 24-day South East Adventure will be able to enjoy the beautiful game en route through the continent, including the Masai town of Narok; proceeds from the sale of the fair-trade footballs helping to change lives in Africa.

Throughout the trip, which includes three days game viewing in the Masai Mara, adventurers will be visiting local markets and villages, ensuring the people of Kenya benefit directly from tourism. (£795pp + local payment from £232pp)

Acacia Adventure Holidays new Kenya Comfort Camping itinerary (pre erected tents with camp beds) will ensure a softer landing for adventurers in the Samburu Game Reserve. The swaying palms near the Ewaso Nyrio River provide welcome relief for its many game viewers, with opportunities to spot more unusual animals including the Grevy’s Zebra and Gerenuk in the reserve itself.

Travellers will also be able to gain an insight into local culture on a visit to a Samburu village before heading off to Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara Game Reserve. (£600pp + local payment £192pp)

With flights to Kenya from as little as £400pp, adventurers can bump themselves up to comfort class, a portfolio featuring lodges and tented camping, complete with verandahs.

The Kenya itineraries range from three to 10 days, covering the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, and while the comfort on these adventures is certainly up a notch or two when compared to the traditional camping experience, travellers will still be treated to the same captivating scenery; all of the itineraries retaining their off the beaten track appeal.

The added comfort factor also means the trips are ideal for families looking to ditch Disney and head off on a more thought provoking holiday in Kenya. (Comfort Class Camping from: £395pp + local payment £125pp, 3-day Mara Lodge Safari)

The above prices include all tour highlights as listed in the brochure, transport, road tolls and taxes, camping and cooking equipment, most meals and services of tour leader and driver. Excludes return international flight, visas, departure taxes, transfers, and flexible local payment excursions.

For more information, visit Acacia-africa.com. All prices are subject to availability.