Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Masai Mara — Wild Horizons

Dubai

For your added comfort, an English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you at the arrival gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be assisted through immigration, airport security, and a dedicated fast track counter. Porter service is provided at the luggage belt area only. You will also receive a voucher for access to the Marhaba departure lounge at this time.. A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort (B) (Executive Sea View)

Dubai

Setting out with a private guide and driver, embark on a half-day tour of Modern Dubai, immersing yourself in the ultra luxe and awe-inspiring delights of the city’s modern core. Head to Palm Jumeirah, the largest human-made island in existence, where you’ll visit the 52nd floor lookout platform of the Palm Tower. Step out to unparalleled views of this extravagant palm tree-shaped island, a beacon of Dubai’s state-of-the-art vision. Nearby, pause for a photo of the stunning sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, an architectural marvel glimmering from its own private island off the Jumeirah Coast. Explore the Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping centers. Walk around and take in the sheer scale of this buzzing hotspot, including its impressive four-floor Human Waterfall, while also having an opportunity to indulge in the most coveted luxury brands or epicurean delights. A highlight of any visit to Dubai, revel in an ascent to the top of the world’s tallest building, the towering and iconic Burj Khalifa. Discover the Burj’s remarkable 124th-floor ‘At The Top’ observation deck, where floor-to-ceiling glass walls offer breathtaking 360-degree views over the city, desert and ocean.. With a private guide, embark on an extravagant food-hopping tour offering an unforgettable taste of various distinct Middle Eastern cuisines across Dubai. Bring your appetite, as your experience covers 5 authentic restaurants that include Egyptian, Emirati, Lebanese, Turkish and Omani specialties. Your first stop of the day is Khofo in Al Seef, where a selection of hot and cold Egyptian appetizers provides a perfect start to your foodie adventure. Next, head over to Al Fanfar for some Emirati specialties, which is followed by mouthwatering shawarma platter at Zaroob. For a taste of Turkey continue to O Doner and indulge in their delicious doner. Finally, enjoy a dessert at Al Harrasi, where Omani halwa is served.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort (B) (Executive Sea View)

Dubai, Abu Dhabi

Set out for a day of discovery with a private guide and driver, experiencing the magical delights of Abu Dhabi. Visit the commanding Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning 21st century construct with a fusion of Islamic architectural styles. Admire its gold accents and pristine white arcades, their symmetry offering up the city’s most iconic photograph spots. Another majestic landmark, gain rare insight into Emirati governance with a visit of Qasr Al-Watan, the grand Presidential Palace. Bask in the impressive Great Hall, and witness the collection of timeless literature and artifacts housed in the Library and House of Knowledge. Enjoy a photo stop at Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, the 18th century Qasr Al-Hosn, a contrast to much of the city’s surrounding modern development. During the course of your day, you’ll be treated to a delicious buffet lunch at Le Vendome (drinks payable on the spot). Located on the 4th floor of the Emirates Palace hotel, the venue offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf as you savor both local and international cuisine. In the afternoon, visit The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a cultural beacon for the UAE, where you'll have some time at leisure to browse the elaborately curated collection of art, design, and world history. Conclude your day with a relaxing transfer back to your hotel.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort (B) (Executive Sea View)

Dubai

On your free morning, the United Arab Emirates and specifically Dubai has much to offer. Choose between optional day tours of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain or a cruise to Musandam, Oman. Or stay in the city of the future that is Dubai. Ever been on a jeep safari? Sand duning? How about a sea cruise to the man made Palm islands? Feel like getting out of the sun and trying out the World's largest indoor ski hill? Dubai is a city of fantasy. Whatever you can think of, its here and waiting for you to experience. Otherwise, just enjoy the beach. After all, you are on the Arabian Sea.. Take a step back in time and experience Dubai as it was 50 years ago. You'll be picked up by a professional private guide and escorted on a fascinating Dubai desert safari. Upon arrival, jump onto a museum quality, vintage 1950’s Land Rover. These Series 1 Land Rovers were extensively used in the 1950’s and since then have become part of the UAE history. No other vehicle offers a more authentic desert safari experience to spot exotic local wildlife within the pristine Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Watch the sun drop under the horizon as you watch a falcon soar around you. Your Bedouin camp, lit with the gentle flames of traditional lamps is nestled inside a private Royal desert retreat. We will demonstrate cultural activities such as henna tattoos, music, dance and bread and Arabic coffee making before enjoying a scrumptious dinner under the stars. History comes to life in this once in a lifetime desert safari in Dubai.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort (B) (Executive Sea View)

Dubai, Nairobi

A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.. Board a flight in Dubai with direct service to Nairobi, Kenya. Approximate flight time is just under six hours. Please note this flight is not included in your itinerary price and must be purchased separately.. For your added comfort, an English-speaking airport representative will meet you at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. This representative will walk you through your welcome package documents and itinerary, and they will answer any questions you may have. They will be holding a page board with your name as you exit the arrivals hall.. A private transfer between your hotel and the airport in Nairobi is provided.. A Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance policy is included for all guests, covering the cost of an evacuation flight to Nairobi for treatment in the event of serious illness or injury. Medical treatment costs are not covered. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for full coverage.

Accommodation: Hemingways Nairobi (B) (Deluxe Suite), Dubai

Nairobi, Masai Mara

Meet your driver for a private transfer between Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.. Sit back and relax during this short, scenic flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara today. Approximate flight duration is 45 minutes. Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.. A shared transfer between the lodge and the airstrip is provided for your onward flight.. Your expert guide will meet you at your lodge for an afternoon game viewing drive in and around the Masai Mara, today focusing on lions. Typically found in the savanna and grasslands, lions live on average between 10 and 14 years, and are unusually social compared to other cats. A pride of lions consists of related females, their offspring and a small number of adult males. Groups of female lions typically hunt together, while the highly distinctive male lion is easily recognized by its mane and large face; one of the most widely recognized animal symbols in human culture.

Accommodation: Hemingways Ol Seki Mara (AI) (Nina Tent (Package)), Nairobi

Masai Mara

Today you will set out on an early morning game drive with your expert guide. The Masai Mara is home to a diverse range of animals. The park is home to the Big Five (Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and Leopard) and numerous other species including Thomson's and Grant's Gazelles, Impalas, Topics, Hartebeest, Zebra and Masai Giraffe. It's also home to over 450 species of birdlife; among them are vultures, marabou storks, secretary birds, hornbills, crowned cranes, ostriches, long-crested eagles and African pygmy-falcons.. In between game drives, there is plenty to do to ensure your free time is filled with engaging or relaxing activities. Arrange a boma-style dinner and dine fireside, chat with fellow guests in the common areas and recount your adventures, relax within the property grounds and watch as wildlife passes before your eyes, grab a refreshment and curl up with a good book, and enjoy sundowner cocktails to welcome the starry night sky; the choice is yours! Alternatively, a range of optional activities (at additional cost) are also available, including hot air balloon safaris and interactive school visits.. Dining at Hemingways Ol Seki Mara is structured around three daily meals, with menus designed to balance international cuisine and locally inspired dishes. Breakfast typically features a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, eggs prepared to order, and a range of hot options. Lunches are lighter in style, often including salads, grilled items, and simple, well-prepared dishes suited to the rhythm of the day. Dinner is more elaborate, generally served as a multi-course menu combining international flavors with regional influences. The kitchen places an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with produce sourced locally where possible. Meals are prepared daily and can be adapted to accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Dining takes place in the main guest areas, with a consistent focus on attentive service and well-executed cuisine, aligned with the overall experience of staying in this remote area of the Maasai Mara.

Accommodation: Hemingways Ol Seki Mara (AI) (Nina Tent (Package)), Masai Mara

Masai Mara

Early this morning head out on a rewarding game drive. Today, see if you can spot the elusive leopard. The smallest of the four "big cats," the leopard was once found across eastern and southern Asia and Africa, from Siberia to South Africa, but its range has decreased radically because of hunting and loss of habitat. It is now chiefly found in sub-Saharan Africa. Compared to other members of the Felidae family, the leopard has relatively short legs and a long body with a large skull. It is similar in appearance to the jaguar, but is smaller and more slightly built. The species success in the wild is in part due to its opportunistic hunting behavior, its adaptability to various habitats, its ability to run at speeds approaching 36 miles per hour, its unequaled ability to climb trees even when carrying a heavy carcass, and its notorious ability for stealth. Ever elusive, these animals are one of the prized sightings within the Masai Mara.. Head out in the afternoon on a game drive across the beautiful Masai Mara. As the sun descends and the plains begin to cool, wildlife emerges from the shelter of shade and becomes more active. See if you can spot a herd of elephants as they approach watering holes and rivers to cool down with a drink and mud bath. The largest living land animal on Earth, elephants live – on average – between 50 to 70 years. African elephants are the largest of their species, and with any luck, will be seen firsthand during your exploration of the Masai Mara.. Included in your stay at Ol Seki Mara, we've arranged a private dinner under the stars, set away from camp where lanterns light your table and the sounds of the bush settle into night. The camp's chefs prepare a multi-course meal served with care, pairing fresh, locally sourced dishes with fine wines. It's an evening that captures the intimacy of the Mara, offering a memorable close to your day in the wilderness.

Accommodation: Hemingways Ol Seki Mara (AI) (Nina Tent (Package)), Masai Mara

Masai Mara

Today you will set out on an early morning game drive with your expert guide. The Masai Mara is home to a diverse range of animals. The park is home to the Big Five (Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and Leopard) and numerous other species including Thomson's and Grant's Gazelles, Impalas, Topics, Hartebeest, Zebra and Masai Giraffe. It's also home to over 450 species of birdlife; among them are vultures, marabou storks, secretary birds, hornbills, crowned cranes, ostriches, long-crested eagles and African pygmy-falcons.. This afternoon, head out on an exciting game drive with your guide, keeping your eyes peeled for giraffes. Giraffes usually inhabit savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. They prefer areas with plenty of acacia trees, an important food source, and can browse at heights that most other herbivores cannot reach. While adults are nearly invulnerable to predation, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas and wild dogs prey on baby calves. Giraffes commonly gather together to eat or socialize for a few hours and then roam off to graze separately. Males establish social hierarchies through "neckings," which are combat bouts where the neck is used as a weapon. Based on these displays, dominant males gain mating rights to females, who then bear the sole responsibility for raising their young.

Accommodation: Hemingways Ol Seki Mara (AI) (Nina Tent (Package)), Masai Mara

Masai Mara, Nairobi

A shared transfer between the lodge and the airstrip is provided for your onward flight.. This short domestic flight departs from Masai Mara and arrives at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Kenya. Approximate flight duration is 45 minutes. Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.. Make the trip to the Giraffe Center to learn about the world’s tallest terrestrial animal and to see these wonderful creatures up close and, if you so choose, to feed them by hand! After the Giraffe Center, visit the Karen Blixen Museum – a home once lived in by Karen – and made famous in the film “Out of Africa” featuring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford (consider watching the movie before setting out on your trip). After exploring this landmark, head to Kazuri Beads. An all-woman craft workshop renowned for making handmade ceramic jewelry and pottery, Kazuri – which means “small and beautiful” in Swahili – is a co-operative enterprise founded decades ago by an English woman who wanted to help single mothers become self-supporting. The clay beads, jewelry and pottery are as amazing as the story of its people, making Kazuri Beads the perfect place to round out your day in Nairobi.