Eastern Odyssey

15 days - from $2075

This trip visits five of the best game parks that East Africa has to offer and gives us awesome opportunities for wildlife viewing and plenty of action. Experience amazing wildlife, gain an insight into the fascinating tribes of the Samburu and Masai people, enjoy spectacular landscapes and meet the wonderful children of St Jude's school on this spectacular journey of discovery.

Highlights

• Samburu National Reserve
• Thompson's Falls
• Lake Nakuru National Park
• Masai Mara National Reserve
• School of St Jude
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Ngorongoro Crater

Itinerary:

Day 1 Nairobi2 Nanyuki3 Samburu National Reserve 4 Samburu National Reserve - Thompson's Falls5 Lake Nakuru National Park6 Lake Nakuru National Park - Masai Mara National Reserve7-8 Masai Mara National Reserve - Nairobi9 Nairobi - Arusha10 School of St Jude - Mto Wa Mbu11-12 Serengeti National Park13 Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Conservation Area14-15 Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha - Nairobi

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the 'must see' sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced safari guide, a professional driver and a camp cook whilst on safari; local specialist guide in Ngorongoro Crater; park fees; 10 nights camping, 2 nights budget hotel, 2 nights tented bush camp; transport in custom-built safari vehicle during safari, 4WD vehicles and on foot.
Not Included: International flights, local payment, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre-tour or post-tour accommodation, all other meals, drinks, sleeping bag, pillow, all optional additional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights (unless specified).
Meals: Allow US$50 for additional meals not included.
Valid From: 11 Jan 08
Notes: We travel in a custom-built safari vehicle that can take a maximum of 24 clients. There are large opening windows, providing unrestricted game viewing and photographic opportunities, and on-board we have useful reference books about the flora and fauna that you may encounter during your safari. The large dome tents are spacious and quick to erect with the sides covered in mosquito netting and foam mattresses provided to enable you to sleep in comfort. A comfortable folding chair is also supplied for each passenger. In addition, all communal camping equipment is carried on board together with on-board cool boxes. You need to bring your own sleeping bag and it is also recommended that you bring a pillow or purchase one locally for added comfort. Please note there are no laundry services available whilst camping, but sometimes when we stay at a campsite for at least two consecutive nights, there may be the opportunity to do some hand-washing. A special feature of the safari is that in addition to our safari guide and professional driver we have a camp cook who plans, budgets and prepares all included meals. Please note that short skirts or shorts are not considered appropriate attire when visiting the School of St Jude Road Conditions and Infrastructure in Africa Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. The infrastructure in Africa is not always what we are used to and travelling on their roads can sometimes be very bumpy experiences. The travelling times indicated in our Trip Notes is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders.
Starts/Ends: Nairobi to Arusha or Nairobi
Trip Reference: GAEO