Vegans special safari

Travelers seeking an eco-conscious, animal-friendly safari experience will find this Vegans Special Safari from Pathway Safaris a compelling choice. Spanning roughly 12 days and covering some of Kenya’s most renowned parks, this tour combines wildlife viewing, community engagement, and a plant-based culinary focus. While it’s priced at around $3,077 per person, many consider the value well worth the unforgettable encounters and responsible travel approach.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the dedication to vegan meals, which isn’t just an afterthought but a core part of the experience. Second, the opportunity to visit world-famous game parks like Maasai Mara and Amboseli—ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Lastly, the chance to participate in conservation projects, adding a meaningful layer to your adventure. The main consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of travel in Kenya’s sometimes bumpy roads, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure.

If you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation, and a plant-based lifestyle, this safari could be your ideal way to see Kenya. It’s perfect for eco-conscious travelers who want authentic experiences paired with comfort and meaningful engagement.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Conservation Focus: Full days of game drives and visits to conservation projects enrich your understanding of Kenya’s ecosystems.
• Vegan Meals Included: All meals are plant-based, with local dishes that showcase Kenyan cuisine in a vegan-friendly way.
• Balanced Itinerary: Visits to Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Nakuru, Ol Pejeta, Amboseli, and Tsavo offer a comprehensive wildlife experience.
• Expert Guides and Seamless Transport: Knowledgeable guides and internal flights improve comfort and convenience.
• Authentic and Responsible Travel: Emphasizes wildlife protection and community impact, making it a fulfilling ethical choice.
• Value for Price: With included park fees, conservation contributions, and accommodation, the tour offers good value for a 12-day adventure.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1-2: Nairobi and Nairobi National Park

The adventure kicks off with a smooth arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where your guide greets you. A highlight here? Passing the Nairobi National Park fence—a rare chance to see wildlife just on the outskirts of a bustling city. Your first game drive offers potential sightings of lions, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and more, giving you an immediate taste of Kenya’s wildlife treasures.

Your visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Trust on Day 2 is especially memorable. Reviewers noted the emotional experience of seeing baby elephants during mud baths and hearing their stories. Guides like Paul and Samuel are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making every encounter informative and heartfelt. After a city tour, you’ll get a glimpse of Kenya’s political and cultural landscape.

Day 3-4: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Crossing the Great Rift Valley, you reach Maasai Mara—a highlight for wildlife lovers. The scenery alone is worth the journey, with expansive plains and iconic acacia trees. Expect your first evening game drive around 4 pm, a prime time for wildlife activity. Reviewers appreciated how the guides expertly tracked lions, cheetahs, and leopards in the wild.

On Day 4, a full-day game drive means plenty of chances to spot Africa’s big five—lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and leopards. You might visit the Mara River, famous for its wildebeest and zebra crossings, an iconic scene in Africa’s wildlife calendar. Expect packed lunches under shady trees, a true camping feel with a touch of luxury.

Day 5-6: Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru

Lake Naivasha offers a different vibe—water-based and peaceful. The boat trip here is a highlight, with hippos, giraffes, zebras, and various bird species like Fish Eagles and Pelicans. The film locations from Out of Africa and Born Free add a nostalgic touch, and reviewers loved the relaxed pace.

Next, at Lake Nakuru, the focus shifts to rhino sightings—its claim to fame as Kenya’s first rhino sanctuary. The scenery includes flamingos and other waterfowl, with a visit to Masika Waterfall providing a scenic break. Expect a mix of wildlife and birdwatching, making each drive a visual feast.

Day 7-8: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

This privately owned conservancy is a wildlife haven and offers excellent opportunities to see rhinos, lions, elephants, and even Chimpanzees. The guides, like Samuel and Peter, are praised for their deep knowledge, especially about conservation efforts such as the rhino graveyard. Reviewers found the game drives exhilarating, citing abundant sightings and engaging commentary.

Day 9-10: Amboseli National Park

Amboseli’s blend of wildlife and scenery is spectacular. The backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, visible on clear mornings, is a photo-op that many travelers cherish. Expect good game sightings, especially elephants, and a visit to the viewpoint for panoramic views of the ecosystem.

Day 11-12: Tsavo East National Park

Your final game drive takes you into Tsavo East, famous for its red elephants and rugged landscapes. The morning game drive here is the perfect way to wrap up your Kenyan wildlife experience. The journey back to Mombasa and onward to Nairobi is straightforward, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on your adventure.

Diving into the Experience: What Makes It Special

Wildlife Encounters & Game Drives

This tour is built around daily game drives, often lasting several hours. Reviewers emphasized the guides’ expertise in spotting animals and sharing insights. The unlimited game drives ensure you don’t miss key moments—whether it’s a pride of lions lounging under a tree or a herd of elephants crossing the plains.

The visit to Mara River during migration season is particularly notable, with many guests capturing stunning photos of animals crossing waters, often described as a bucket-list moment. The guides’ ability to locate elusive animals like cheetahs and rhinos in such vast parks is a standout.

Conservation and Community Projects

A unique aspect of this safari is its focus on wildlife conservation. Visitors are introduced to projects like the rhino graveyard at Ol Pejeta, which promotes awareness about poaching and species protection. Guests often leave with a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by wildlife in Kenya and a sense of having contributed to meaningful efforts.

Vegan Meals & Local Cuisine

Meals are a highlight for many reviewers—delicious, satisfying, and entirely plant-based. You’ll enjoy local dishes prepared vegan-style, allowing you to experience Kenyan cuisine without animal products. This focus on dietary ethics adds a feel-good factor to the trip, making it suitable for plant-based travelers or those looking to reduce animal harm.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses local flights for internal travel, such as from Nairobi to Mombasa, reducing long road journeys. The group size is private, which means a more personalized experience. Transport during game drives is typically in well-equipped safari vehicles, with knowledgeable guides ensuring your comfort and safety.

Accommodation & Dining

Accommodations range from safari lodges to hotels, often praised for their scenic locations and comfortable amenities. Reviewers have noted the stunning views and friendly staff, making your stay enjoyable after long days of adventure.

Price and Value

While $3,077 might seem steep, the package covers all park entry fees, conservation fees, government taxes, and most meals. The inclusion of internal flights, experienced guides, and a well-rounded itinerary makes it a solid investment for an immersive wildlife safari with an ethical twist.

Comparing this to other safaris, the focus on vegan dining and conservation projects adds a layer of authenticity many safari operators lack. The feedback indicates that participants value the expert guidance and the variety of parks visited, which provides a comprehensive Kenyan wildlife experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits eco-conscious travelers eager to see Africa’s riches without compromising their ethical beliefs. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity, as game drives can be lengthy, and some walking may be involved.

It’s also perfect for wildlife photography enthusiasts given the opportunities to capture iconic scenes and the guidance on animal spotting. If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure, conservation, and plant-based eating, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Vegans Special Safari from Pathway Safaris offers a genuine, respectful approach to wildlife exploration in Kenya. Its well-structured itinerary covers key parks, offers ample game viewing, and emphasizes conservation efforts, making it more than just a holiday—it’s a chance to contribute positively.

The focus on delicious vegan meals and intimate guide knowledge adds a special touch, creating a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with ethics. While the journey can involve some long days and travel, the reward of witnessing Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat makes it worthwhile.

For travelers passionate about wildlife and committed to responsible travel, this safari provides both the excitement of seeing Africa’s most famous species and the peace of mind knowing you’re supporting conservation initiatives. It’s a trip that leaves lasting memories, an appreciation for nature, and perhaps a new motivation to protect our planet.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making your arrival and departure smooth and stress-free.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers all park, conservation entry fees, government taxes, all meals (except drinks during meals), accommodation based on double occupancy, and local flights between Mombasa and Nairobi.

Are all game parks included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour visits Nairobi National Park, Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Amboseli, and Tsavo East.

What about meals?
All meals during the tour are vegan, prepared to showcase local ingredients and flavors, offering a satisfying plant-based experience.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 12 days, with a flexible start time and private group setting for a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness; some walking and vehicle transfers are involved, typical of safari conditions.

Can I customize the trip or add extra activities?
The tour is private, so you may have flexibility to discuss optional add-ons with the provider, though main activities are pre-planned.

What is the best time to book this safari?
While not explicitly stated, Kenya’s dry seasons (roughly June to October and January to February) are usually ideal for game viewing.

How do reviews rate this experience?
Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on four reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and the ethical focus on conservation and veganism.

Embark on this Kenyan adventure if you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated safari that combines wildlife, ethics, and authentic local flavor. It’s a truly memorable way to see Africa while sticking to your values.