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What can you expect from an Exodus tailormade adventure? Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what Jane Moir, one of our tailormade travellers, had to say about her tailormade Kenya safari… 

Tailormade Adventures

I had travelled with Exodus on several group adventures to Africa and India, but it was a first-time Africa adventure for my partner and 27-year-old son. I was anxious that they would enjoy it as much as I knew I would. This was the first time I had used the Tailormade Adventures, so I didn’t know quite what to expect.

However, from the moment I picked up the phone to start planning the trip, I knew I was in very safe hands talking to Sharmil. We discussed my plan and the itinerary, the high point (literally) to be in a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara on the morning of my 60th birthday.

Wildebeast on the Masai MaraWildebeast on the Masai Mara

After several tweaks to adjust the itinerary to fit our separately booked flights, migration season, and the balloon requirement, a very patient and always cheerful Sharmil confirmed our trip.

We were not disappointed. From the moment Peter, our driver, punctually met us in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, everything went completely to plan. He was an excellent driver, very capably demonstrating the challenging driving techniques required on the Kenyan highways!

Lake Nakuru Lodge accommodation was ideal for us, being very comfortable with views over the reserve. The breakfasts were an excellent selection of hot and cold dishes, ideal for the large appetites of my family! Peter seemingly worked a few miracles for us so that during our Kenya safari we saw white and black rhinos, and lions who decided to use our vehicle as a scratching post – a thrilling encounter for us all.

Watering hole at the Masai MaraWatering hole at the Masai Mara

Moving to the Mara (be prepared for a long but fascinating drive), Ilkeliani Tented Camp was simply wonderful – very private with a great sense of exclusivity.

The staff were absolutely delightful and the chef-prepared food was delicious. (For my partner and son who approached the concept of ‘sleeping in a tent’ with much trepidation, their dread completely disappeared when they discovered the luxurious beds, constant hot water and not a long drop loo in sight!)

Hippos bathing in the waterHippos bathing in the water

Not only did we have a fabulous dawn flight in our balloon but Peter followed up by getting us to the Mara River with perfect timing just as the wildebeest and zebra were crossing – something I’d seen many times on the TV but nothing prepares you for this spectacle in the raw – the dust, noise, and the drama, with animals as far as the eye can see.

As a bonus, Peter confirmed his status as a superb guide by finding both cheetah and lion cubs amongst an array of animals, while his bird identification was second to none.

Cheetahs having a lie downCheetahs having a lie down

In summary, a private adventure means that you can go at your own pace choosing how you spend your day, with the exclusive attention of your driver to make your trip very special. This was the perfect introduction to an African safari for my son and partner – so my advice would be don’t just read about it – do it now!!

Your Adventure, Your Way

With a tailormade adventure, you can choose your own exclusive group of friends or family, pick your own dates of travel, customise one of our itineraries to be just right for you – like a special event on your birthday – and still benefit from the expertise and experience of a highly qualified Exodus leader.

Call our specialist team on 0203 733 5635 to find out how they can create your dream adventure.

Find out more about Tailormade Adventures and African safaris below.