All in one: East Africa safari and beach

The King of the Kenyan safari, the Masai Mara is bucket-list travel down to a tee. The iconic wildlife (think big cats, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, zebra and the famous river crossings of the Great Migration from July to September) is matched by some of the most beautiful scenery in Africa – and there’s a lengthy list of activities to help you discover it all.

Morning and afternoon game drives are the bread and butter of a Masai Mara safari, and all-day expeditions are common especially during the Great Migration. There’s usually a bush breakfast under a shady tree or a mobile sundowner bar to complete the experience too. Specific to the private Mara Conservancies are walking safaris and night drives, both allowing you to get to grips with the landscape in different ways. In specific locations, early-morning hot air balloon flights are possible – definitely worth booking in advance – as are horseback safaris for varying capabilities. Finally, many camps have partnerships with local Maasai communities for a chance to join them in their daily life.

Amboseli is famous for its big tuskers, iconic elephants with larger-than-life tusks, most often photographed against the swirling snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Game drives are the best means to see the herds (go in the early morning for the clearest views of Kili), and morning and afternoon drives are available from all lodges. What most don’t know is that the animals here extend far beyond the elephants, and buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and all three big cats (lion are the easiest to find) are sure to make an appearance.

Once you’ve snapped your photos, bush walks are a great way to get a real feel for the landscape. If you’re serious about walking, visit from June to October or January and February when the grasses are short and the rain is less. Maasai are common in this part of Kenya and lodges will happily take you to the surrounding villages for a peek into community life, as well as visits to conservation and community projects, depending on their involvement.

Think of Zanzibar, think of powdery sand, lapping waves and a sun lounger? Well, yes, Zanzibar has them all by the bucket-load, but there’s plenty beyond the beach too. Water babies can take their pick from just about every ocean activity under the sun, be it snorkelling, kayaking, kite surfing or SUPing. Depending on the hotel, these can be done in-house or from a local water-sports centre that will provide the equipment and an instructor, (particularly for scuba-diving). A sundowner aboard a traditional dhow is also a must; again, many hotels have their own boat or will arrange one for you.

On land, Stone Town is a hub of colour and culture, shopping and spices, and worth a wander (with a guide or without) especially in the evening when the markets come to life. Spice Tours are famous for a reason, and lesser-known but equally as enticing activities include Jozani Forest and Prison Island. Details vary from place to place, but all activities can be arranged through your hotel in advance, or simply decide when you arrive.