We have returned from a tailormade trip to Kicheche Mara Camp in Kenya and Fumba Beach Lodge in Zanzibar.
I must congratulate Charlie Potter for his organisation and what a great trip it was.
Kicheche Mara Camp, what a fabulous place. Tents were absolute luxury, better than some hotels. The staff were ALL excellent, smiley and friendly, they couldn't do enough for you.
This camp is in the Mara North Conservancy and I strongly believe this is the way forward for Safaris and camps.
The camp was small, just 8 tents all well spaced out with fabulous views right amongst nature itself. Wildlife frequently came into camp and you could hear their calls at night time. In the hours of darkness you were always escorted to your tents.
Each night someone goes and puts a hot water bottle in your bed whilst you are dining.
Every morning at 5.30 you are woken with a hot drink and freshly baked biscuits - each in the shape of an animal, different each day. Then when you go to the Safari vehicle there is a hot water bottle on your seat - yes this was needed some mornings.
Each evening before the meal there was a camp fire where you shared details of your day with others as well as having a drink under the stars. Also Michael gave us a thought of the day, which was always appreciated.
The food, what can I say it was 5 star, as good as any top hotel, all cooked on the premises. All the bread, biscuits and cakes were freshly done. Presentation was always excellent as was the service. Always smiles on the staff faces and the camp managers - Ray and Tony - always ate with you.
It was great when there was a celebration as all the staff took part and a cake brought out or even champagne.
Breakfasts were taken on the early morning game drive and again the food was excellent and it was a good chance to stretch your legs. Back at lunch time for another excellent meal, then afternoon tea before going out again. Then sundowners and snacks on the drive. What more could we ask. We certainly never went hungry.
The game drives were superb, we had Saruni and he was always pointing things out, spotting animals and birds and finding the necessary game to view. He was a great friendly guy always smiling and chatting with us. In fact your game drive starts from the moment you land at the airstrip.
We followed Cheetahs after an Impala, chased across the valley to watch Hyenas take a Topi down. Gazed at Lionesses with their cubs and prides playing or sleeping in the sun. Elephants tramping through the river Mara. You name it we saw it except for the Leopard, but we did try. We did see a Serval one evening, how Saruni spotted it I don't know as they blend in so well. Lions in large numbers, giraffe, zebra, plenty of Topi, Jackal to name a few plus the great variety of birdlife which is fantastic.
This was my third time on this wonderful tour - everything about it is to be recommended. The accommodation is extremely clean and comfortable, and the tour leaders and all the staff involved at the lodge and the camp are so kind and completely dedicated to giving you a memorable trip.
There were 9 of us in the group and we got along really well, which seems to be the way with Exodus groups!
I think this safari is exactly what you pay for. We were able to move flawlessly through all the highlights of the safari ad safely spot the big 5.
Thea GillinghamTravel Expert in Kenya and Tanzania
Leonie TaylorTravel Expert in Kenya and Tanzania
Victoria ErskineTravel Expert in Kenya and South Africa
