Travel reviews by G & K from LA

"Comfortable room(s), good food, friendly and accommodating staff."

"We loved this camp! The setting is gorgeous and the staff is wonderful, friendly, professional, efficient, and so much fun! We loved Philip, Rahab, and Tilas (sp?). The tents were very nice, comfortable, with beautiful views. The food was delicious, with generous portions.

Our game drives here were not as game-rich as other camps. That said, elephants were in and around the camp throughout the day at close range, even walking below the treehouses. So great to see their interactions up close, especially at the watering hole. Giraffes were especially plentiful during the drives, more than anywhere else, which was really special. We loved our guide Jacob who was happy to answer our questions about him, his family, the Samburu way of life, the area, the animals, etc. Nice sense of humor, too!

This camp provided more of a cultural experience than our other three camps which we loved. We'd highly recommend joining the small group of Samburu women who visited and demonstrated their beading skills as they made each of us a lovely, simple bracelet. We had a wonderful exchange, trading questions through interpreter Rahab (the asst camp mgr) who is also from the Samburu tribe. So interesting. There's a small charge which goes to the women and the village.

Also highly recommend visiting a Samburu village - we were lucky to visit during a wedding. Note 1: please no pictures, at least during a wedding party. Note 2: Unlike Maasai villagers, the Samburu people do not sell their wares at the villages but there is a small shop of local crafts at the camp.

The Singing Wells excursion was unlike anything we've seen before, and so interesting. Don't miss it.

The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is also a must-see, even if you've been to Sheldrick in Nairobi. They're doing such important work and their passion for it is lovely to see. And the babies are adorable and funny to watch.

We'd definitely come back here!"

"We loved this camp! The staff is wonderful and camp manager Anita is fun and eager to accommodate any guest's wish she can. The tent was nice with a beautiful view; the food was delicious and plentiful, with lunches served just meters from the many elephants, buffalo, and even lions who appear at the lake throughout the day.

We were treated to a "back of house" tour, getting to visit the "operations" parts of the camp, like the garden, the kitchen, communal areas for the staff, and other BTS facilities. It was very interesting, and the only camp that we saw anything behind the scenes. We had laundry done here, all of which came back sparkling clean and ironed!

The game drives were terrific, with plenty of wildlife to see. We really loved our guide Peter, who was so lovely and so knowledgeable. I'm a photographer, as is Peter, and he was always aware of putting the vehicle at the best angles and being aware of the best light. He was great at finding lots of animals for us to get excited about! Rhinos are a big draw here in Laikipia and we saw quite a few.

We tried a night game drive twice but it was very windy (and cold!) which subdues the movement of the animals, thus limiting what we saw. I'd recommend trying one but if it's extra windy, I wouldn't prolong the drive. Though Peter was game! At night we did see a few hyenas, foxes, jackals, a bush baby, and a very rare sighting of a polecat.

We'd happily go back to Kicheche Laikipia!"

"We loved Rekero! The staff was friendly, efficient, and professional in granting the wishes of its guests. Sarah, the assistant camp manager, was lovely and demonstrated wonderful hospitality.

Our safari guide Karia was amazing! He was so knowledgeable and eager to show us the marvels of the Mara - the best day of game drives in our entire 11-day safari was because of his enthusiasm and incredible spotting skills. He is a photographer, as I am, and he always knew the right angles and light to enhance our shots. We couldn't have asked for more.

The tent was lovely and comfortable; every meal was delicious and beautifully served; the camp is nicely located with great views.

We look forward to staying here again!"

"We loved this camp!

The "tents" are beautiful and well-appointed with a modern design that convinces you this is not a tent! (but it is!) The most luxurious of our four camps and, at the end of an 11-day safari, much appreciated.

Minnie is the delightful camp manager who oversees a wonderful staff, always making sure every guest feels welcome and accommodated. And what a staff! We had the most fun here, with everyone joining in the festivities which included singing, dancing, and cake (!) for everyone to celebrate guests' special occasions. Just great!

The camp has a lovely location with beautiful views of the valley. The food was nicely presented and delicious, every meal, including our "picnic" breakfasts and sundowners in the bush.

Our guide Bernard was wonderful! He is a magical spotter and always seemed to know where the next exciting wildlife sighting would be. And there were many! He, too, is an accomplished photographer who helped us take advantage of the best light, and maneuvered us into the best spots for photos. He's passionate about conservation, wildlife, and the wellbeing of his Maasai community, an inspiration. We loved him and could not have asked for a better guide and daily companion.

We highly recommend the Kicheche Valley camp!"

"We really enjoyed staying here. Since a previous stay in 2014, the hotel has been completely renovated with beautiful common areas and beautifully appointed, spacious, and comfortable rooms.

The grounds are lovely with a large, attractive pool area. It is very well located in Karen, close to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Center, restaurants, and shopping.

The breakfasts and dinners were very good with an attentive and friendly staff.

This is where we'll stay when we return, hopefully soon."