Wonders of Kenya

This was a bucket list trip for our family and it didn’t disappoint from a game drive and guide perspective. Zadock from Somak Safaris was incredible. He was personable, knew his stuff, and was attentive to what we were looking for in our safari. He is exceeded our expectations and then some. The game reserves were incredible and we were fortunate to see the Big Five, Samburu Five, local culture, a Samburu tribe and of course the Maasai. Where the trip goes off the rails is with the lodging and food based in what we paid for the tour. The initial hotel upon arrival, The Tamarind, is located in an area that is not that safe and unfortunately near one of the biggest slums in Africa. Better choice is need for first impressions into Kenya. The Ark was a great lodge with fabulous views. Food was average. Ashnil Samburu Camp was great. Lodging was great and the food was top notch. Sweetwaters Serena Tented Camp - Views were amazing. Food was not great with limited choices in the buffet and the food was not cooked well Lake Nakuru Lodge Hotel Nakuru - great views and terrific game drive. Food definitely not great. Again, not much variety and poorly cooked Keekorok Lodge Maasai Mara National Reserve - Hotel was very dated and service was poor. Upon arrival, the rooms were were given: Dirty floors No towels Door handle stuck Walls chipped Backed onto garbage area where staff dragged bins, chatted at 4:30am, cars running No screen or ability to shut it No table out front (like other places) Bad lighting Please see photos attached. For the price point, the lodging and food should be a lot better. As mentioned, tour guide and game reserves were phenomenal.

1) Hotels( Lodges ) were great - good, service and accimmodation; 2) We were put off by theultiple vidits to Curio shops( “over - curioed”). The sales clerks were too aggressive in most places. 3) We were exoevting more from our “Masai Encounter” but ended up again being hustled for donations and sold their “locally-made” goods. 4) We were surprised AND puzzled why we had no access to the Optional Experience presented in thw Trafalgar brochure as with our past Trafalgar teips.While our travel guide was great, we wanted to hear feom the experts.

Overall, the itinerary was awesome. I felt like I really experienced Kenya. Only thing I would change is I think a day at the beach/coast would have been more complete. Maybe in place of Lake Nakuru, especially since the flamingos aren't there anymore.

It is an amazing itinerary. We saw a lot of animals in various locations and our guide knew where to find the big 5. The accommodations were lovely The only complaint was little or no down time.