Yes some of the drives are long but it was a good chance to get to know the others in your jeep, we played silly games to pass the time, watched the amazing scenery go by and some even managed a little snooze to catch up from the early starts. Even though some of the drives were hard work there were plenty of stops to stretch your legs ( and spend money) and it was worth it once you arrived at the lodges. The journey between the first and second stops was the longest, made worse by getting stuck in the mud, a flat tyre and traffic, we arrived a lot later than planned but even though we didn't have as much time, the views over the Water hole and sights of Mount Kenya in the morning made it better.

All of the lodges were really comfortable and the staff really welcoming - all with amazing views.

The drives themselves were unbelievable - we saw everything we could have asked for plus much more. Elephants crossing the tracks in front and behind us, that close they were brushing past the jeep.

Prides of Lions, with lots of cubs (very cute and mischievous, always wanting to play) - One group we counted 14 together.

A lion sitting in a tree - which apparently is a very rare sight.

Plus a Cheetah with two cubs just after a kill and a Leopard hiding in a tree.

Too many other animals to name and loads of various birds.

We had a couple of pretty heavy rain storms, which didn't stop us seeing anything, in fact the lions seems to appear more after the rain. Other than that the days were warm, nights cooled a bit, some found it colder than others but three of the lodges had fire pits so it was nice a toasty to have a drink with the group and talk over the day before bed.

If you love wildlife, beautiful scenery and want to see the life in Kenya this is definitely a trip worth doing.

I'm so glad I picked this for my first JY trip - Brilliant memories I will have forever.

I'm so glad you enjoyed your trip, it sounds like you had a fantastic time.

Sally

Hi Sally & Paula

Thanks for both of your reviews it looks a fantastic holiday and I am very tempted.

Just one thing, how was it sharing a room?  I'm not asking for specific details of your fellow travellers but just wondered if in general it worked out OK.

Thanks

Sue 

I opted to pay extra for a room of my own but I know from the others in the group who shared that this worked very well indeed. The room pairings were announced once we arrived in Kenya and were having coffee before starting our long drive to the first lodge. People had the option to approach the Tour Manager before the announcement if they had a particular preference so those who had bonded during the flight were able to share if they wanted to.

Hope that eases your mind.

Sally

Hi Sally

Thanks for your reply, it's very helpful.

Sue

At the end of the day it's not for ever and it really is just sleeping time.

We all just mucked in and got on. It worked well.

Cindy

Paula

Jaya

Isobel

A quick look in my guide book shows Sept to be a good time to visit Kenya. Oct & Nov brings the 'short rains' where you can get an hour or two of heavy rain each day, having said that I went in Oct and it only rained once very briefly. Jan / Feb is a good time also, hot and dry so the animals all gather around the few watering holes. As regards safety - as always with a JY tour you are looked after very well. You tend to stay together as a group all the time - only getting to and from your room are you on your own and if you are sharing a room you of course will have your room mate to keep you company. All the lodges were very safe with security staff patrolling the grounds. I can't stress enough what a good trip this is for animal lovers and photographers. I do hope you take the plunge and book it.

Sally

Hi Penny

I too have booked this trip for September 2017 and am already counting the days!  See you in September.

Jaya

After reading your excellent review I have booked myself on this trip for September as I am a real animal lover. I cannot wait now and like a few others  I have paid extra and booked a room to myself.

Sally