We chose Alliance Destinations because James was who first answered us, very willing to accommodate the trip to our needs: specifically, to begin in Nairobi and end it in Mombasa (rather than return to Nairobi) and quickly search an international flight that would allow us to get to Nairobi and back from Mombasa. In turn, that would allow to travel along the coast on our own, that was the intention.
James was always attentive, quickly answering our e-mails. We were able to book without any inconvenience.
He and our guide and driver in the safari which was to begin in just two days, Gerard, were waiting for us at the airport in Nairobi. They took us to our hotel and there we close not only the balance of our safari but we decided to contract with them a day at Nairobi National Park, visit to the orphanage for elephants and Giraffes Center. It was an unforgettable day, already with Gerard, and we highly recommend this tour.
And what about Safari in itself? Everything was perfect and far beyond our expectations. We stayed 2 nights in Masai Mara, 1 night at Lake Nakuru and 2 nights in Amboseli. Masai Mara camp is spectacular (Ashnil Camp); other accommodation, not so much, but very well, particularly comfortable, clean and with very good food.
Masai Mara is not to be missed. Gerard was always willing, our tastes and interests. He seems to maintain the enthusiasm of a first day. Loves his country and his work, knows a lot of animals and the places you visit. It is a very careful driver (in fact, he was excellent in two dangerous situations created by other truck drivers).
I don’t think we can remember the number of animals we saw: Lions, Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes (many!), wildebeests, gazelles of various types, topis, zebras and elephants (thousands of elephants in Amboseli), buffaloes, ostriches, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, birds of all kinds... Gerard was always attentive and did everything supremely well.
Don’t miss the balloon flight... a unique experience that is well worth the big bucks it costs. Excellent Casey, the pilot of a Hot Air Safaris.
The parks are long and strenuous, but very instructive. If you want to learn about Africa and its people there is no best way to go observing their villages, their inhabitants, their routes, the places where they live and how they live... Spectacular.
Lake Nakuru is slightly decadent since flood deprived of its most important attraction, the flamingos. However, it was there where we saw more and better zebras and where we could get off, well guarded by rangers, and closer to zebras and flamingos themselves remaining in the Lake. Beautiful.
Amboseli is the paradise for elephants’ lovers. There are thousands (literally). It is not to be missed. Here James joined us to the safari, with good reviews and his good company.
In the end, two surprises bonus track: a visit to a masai community, touching and unforgettable, and another to the elephant with largest tusks...
We have no words to thank the efficiency, work and love Gerard and James. We strongly recommend Alliance Destinations.