Category Archives: Msafiri Guide

Why Zuru Kenya?

December 1, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

Millions of travelers year in, year out, make Kenya their chosen holiday destination. There has to be a good reason why…

One of Africa’s top tourist destinations, not only does Kenya rank high in the world as a safari provider, it also features beautiful white sandy beaches, famous national parks, varied rich cultures, and very welcoming people. Granted some aspects of your trip may be affected by poor infrastructure or a few security concerns in some regions; the adventures, scenery, people and exhilarating experiences will have you coming back to the country for more!!

Here’s why we think Kenya should be top of your destinations to visit list!

1. Home of Safari

Subject to a series of safari-inspired film classics such as Mogambo and Born Free, Kenya is famous in the safari world as having been host to the greatest, unrivalled private hunting safaris frequented by American presidents and European royalty. Photography safari was also pioneered here in the 50’s and 60’s and countless documentaries such as BBC’s Big Cat Diary serve as pull factors drawing safari enthusiasts to the country.

2. White sandy beaches The Kenyan Coast boasts of both beautiful white sandy beaches along the warm azure waters of the Indian Ocean and an abundance of unspoilt coral reefs providing for arguably the best diving sites in the world. The coral reefs harbor dolphins, turtles, tropical fish, as well as whale sharks. Activities here are centred around swimming, diving, game fishing, rafting, snorkeling among others.

The most popular beaches are Mombasa Beach, Lamu Beach, Diani Beach, Bamburi Beach Tana River Delta Beach, Malindi Beach, Watamu Beach and Tiwi Beach.

3. Rich Culture

One of the most exciting aspects of a safari in Kenya is the chance to meet and interact with local tribes people …With 43 or so tribes, this country is home to an abundance of culture bound to give you great appreciation for other peoples way of life. Right from the most known Maasai/Samburu warriors, down to the Swahili culture at the coast…whether you are fishing with the people from the south, or riding camels in the North, here is where you’ll get to sample varied tastes of culture.

4. The exclusivity of Lamu

The island of Lamu has seemingly become the place to go for exotic holidays. The place is a buzz with upmarket clientele during the holiday season and is certainly the embodiment of shabby-chic. The islands of north of Lamu also play host to some similarly shabby-chic but nonetheless upmarket beach lodges, notably Kiwayu Lodge and Manda Bay Lodge; great bases from which to explore the island ruins and isolated beaches, as well as to sail and dive the network of waterways.

5. The Great Wildebeest Migration

The most exhilarating experience is to watch thousands of zebras and wildebeests migrating in the “Great Wildebeest Migration” in the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Watch as the migrating animals fight for their chance at greener pastures while escaping the lions and crocodiles preying on them.

6. Our History

A portrait of Fort Jesus

Kenya does not fall short of historical sites to visit. Some of which hold mysteries and facts bound to leave you in awe…be it political, social or economic, our countries history is one to draw you in. Some of the prominent sites include Fort Jesus, the oldest coastal fort in the world and Shimoni, once used a holding pen for slaves during the slave trade.

7. A wide range of activities

Enjoy wildlife safaris, bird watching, windsurfing, horseback riding, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, snorkeling, scuba diving, hot air ballooning, mountain climbing, hiking, water skiing, fishing, and many more wonderful activities.

8. Affordability

With a favorable exchange rate against many international currencies, Kenya is a fairly inexpensive tourist destination. Although the Kenya shilling fluctuates, it always gives a much better value compared to other major currencies, such as the United States dollar, sterling pound or the Euro. The cost of living is much lower in Kenya as well when compared to Europe or the United States.

9. Climate

Kenya enjoys a wonderful tropical climate. It is generally warm all year round, with plenty of sunshine and cooler nights and mornings. Visitors are able to enjoy most activities on the beaches and in the national parks all year round. Since Kenya lies on the equator, the seasonal temperature changes are not extreme. However, due to the differing topography, you will experience different weather patterns when traveling across Kenya. The hottest months of the year are February and March with temperatures as high as 93°F (34°C) while the coolest season falls between July and August with temperatures dropping to around 60°F (16°C). Kenya provides very perfect weather for those who live in colder countries to escape to.

10. Great Game

Kenya offers some of the best and most accessible game viewing in the world, including the hard-to-resist attraction of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino). These, together with many other animals that are unique to Africa, can be seen at the national parks and game reserves throughout Kenya.

The months between June and October, and December to March are the most popular times of the year to Visit Kenya. April, May and November can be quite wet.

Hotels and Resorts

The Majlis

November 9, 2013 zurukenya 3 Comments

The Majlis, situated on Manda Island in Lamu is the perfect blend of Luxury, style, Swahili culture and western comforts. This privately owned resort is quickly turning into East Africa’s most intimate and Eco-friendly beach resort.

This boutique hotel constitutes 25 exquisite deluxe rooms and suites featured in three beachfront villas. In the rooms guests are provided with spectacular views of either the beach, garden, swimming pools or the endless Indian Ocean. Majlis is Ultra-stylish and elegant having Lamu style decor with displays of antique Swahili furniture, African paintings and sculptures.

Guests here should expect nothing short of excellence…

For the foodies, the Majlis restaurant will not fail to impress. Set on an open plan veranda with a panoramic view of the bay, it offers the finest cuisine. Additional state-of-the-art facilities include two bars, two swimming pools and an activity centre, which co-ordinates a wide variety of activities. Non-guests can book for lunch or dinner.

The Majlis is also child-friendly and features children’s areas supervised by dedicated nannies, family-friendly room layouts and delicious kid-friendly meals. Children can also safely swim in the sea or in the pools with pool attendants on duty all day long.

Activities here are centered around Swahili culture, sailing, water sports, and fishing. The Lamu archipelago cruises are unforgettable and so is the arrival on Majlis’s shore on Ras Kitau bay from Lamu, on a scenic 15-minute boat ride which is a treat in and of itself.

With a superb beachfront location and breathtaking views over the Ras Kitau bay and Shela village, Majlis Resort offers the perfect setting and ideal location for barefoot luxury, informal pampering and excellent cuisine.

Hotels and Resorts

Msambweni Beach House

November 7, 2013 zurukenya 2 Comments

Msambweni House is located just south of Msambweni village on the remote southern coast of Kenya. This family owned and run property is uniquely set and enjoys seclusion away from the busier south coast areas, a stay here thus guarantees utmost exclusivity.

This small boutique lodge appeals to individuals seeking personalized service and an intimate beach experience. It constitutes three suites in the main building, two detached cottages and a further tented room. Maweni Beach House is well thought out with its elegant Swahili-inspired design oozing pure luxury.

Expect top level comfort and service in this high-end property. Having your own private jacuzzi looking into the Indian ocean, butler service, and other staff at your disposal, Msambweni House is just the place to be. Highlight of the house is certainly its stunning centre-piece infinity pool that merges with the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. A whole range of activities are also offered here.

The dining experience here is divine with meals being centred on Swahili, Belgian and French cuisine.Children of all ages are most welcome at Msambweni Beach House. There are no specific child care facilities but babysitting can easily be arranged. It is possible to tailor food requirements to children’s tastes and arrange for earlier meal times if required.

Msambweni House is almost certainly the best upper-end market option in the south and is open for rental on an exclusive basis. Keep in mind though, December is peak season so be sure to make reservations earlier in advance. It remains closed in May.

Hotels and Resorts

Alfajiri Villas

October 28, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

We begin our feature on must do coastal accommodations for the December holidays at Alfajiri Villas in the southern region. Originally the Beach Villa, this Italian owned property is up there as the best exclusive villa on the East African Coast. So much so it was awarded the Harpers and Queen award for the private villa providing the best service worldwide in 2002.

Situated within Diani, an hour’s drive south of Mombasa airport, guests are provided with an option of either Garden Villa, the Cliff Villa, or the Beach Villa (book months in advance for the latter). These luxurious double-story villas, owned and run by Fabrizio and Marica Molinaro are well thought out, elegantly styled, and very private. All are rented out on an exclusive basis.

The Garden and Beach Villas feature four double en-suite rooms whereas the Cliff Villa supports two doubles, a twin and a triple. Service here is exceptional and so is the dining experience but the selling point at Alfajiri is definitely its exclusivity. Something that has seen famous names like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie frequent the property.

Alfajiri villas gives you good value for money be sure though, it does not come cheap! Nonetheless, with the most desirable holiday location on the entire African coast, top quality service and the ultimate luxury experience, its well worth it.

Historical Sites, Things to do

Weekend City Tour

September 17, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

Over the weekend, we spontaneously decided to explore one of Mombasa’s oldest town and historical sites. On Sunday we went to tour Mombasa’s most popular tourist attraction, Fort Jesus where we spent a better part of the afternoon learning about its history and significance from our tour guide, Ali Mohammed whom we met by the entrance.

Our guide Ali explaining to us about the materials used to build the fort.

The view from the fort…beautiful!

One of the curio shops within the fort. This was formally the kitchen area used by the portuguese and the setting remains the same to date aside from some minor renovations.

Carol stands beside the tree believed to be 2 million years old, how outstanding!! This tree owes its existence to the Jurassic period and what stands here is believed to have been the roots of the tree that are now visible due to subsistence. The fort was built around it.

Ancient Portuguese art on display at the fort. The art was excavated from the fort’s grounds and due to aging the museum had to trace the drawings using graphite.

Remains of one of the Portuguese soldiers buried at the fort

Remains of the Portuguese chapel brought down by the Omani Arabs

An Omani chest

Gede ruins replica

After a few educative hours at the fort we headed on to the streets of Old town where we were awed by the architectural influence of the Portuguese and the Arabs on the buildings. The streets of Old town are always so alive with bright colours of the traditional coastal khanga and kikoy, the all purpose wrap around cloth worn by both men and women. The exotic town has retained its culture and one will find here busy markets, women along the narrow streets in traditional buibui, fishermen selling their fresh fish at the dhow docks and the sweet aroma of varied spices in the air.

Shark teeth Ancient homes with Indian Architecture One of the oldest mosques in the area. It is still in use today.Looks like residents here are Liverpool fans 🙂 The little Askari (soldier) guarding the place

A very old warehouse used to store goods during the Arab trade daysOur guide Ali seems to really love his job and is good at it too.

Almond tree

This was an afternoon well spent. Many thanks to our guide Ali Mohammed for the tour and the things we learnt. Hope to go on another similar venture soon!

Keep travelling and exploring!!!

Historical Sites

Fort Jesus (Fortaleza de Jesus de Mombaça)

August 17, 2013 zurukenya 3 Comments

Fort Jesus, undoubtedly Mombasa’s most popular tourist attraction, is a monumental piece of architecture built in the 16th century from 1593-1596 by the Portuguese. Sitting on the edge of a coral ridge overlooking the entrance to the old port of Mombasa, the Fortress which was built to protect the Portuguese trade route to India as well as their vested interests in East Africa is now turned Museum, declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2011 and one of the finest examples of 16th century Portuguese military architecture.

Designed by Italian architect, Giovanni Battista Cairatiand and later dedicated and named “Fortaleza de Jesus de Mombaça” by the then-captain of the coast, Mateus de Mendes de Vasconcelos, the quadrilateral fort is comprised of four bastions; S. Felipe, S. Alberto, S. Mathias and S. Mateus and owes its existence to the Turkish raids of 1585 and 1588 which is what led to its construction.

Since its erection, Fort Jesus’ control has exchanged hands numerous times in counting; In 1631, Sultan Muhammad Yusif baptized as Dom Jeronimo Chingulia entered the fort taking the Portuguese by surprise and killing the Portuguese captain, Pedro Leitão de Gamboa. He also then massacred the whole Portuguese population of Mombasa (45 men, 35 women and 70 children) and after two months of siege, abandoned the enterprise becoming a pirate. Right After sultan Dom’s departure, a small Portuguese force under Captain Pedro Rodrigues Botelho, that had remained in Zanzibar, reoccupied the fort.

In 1696, Fort Jesus fell under siege from Omani Arabs but was easily relieved by a Portuguese expedition in the same year. Unfortunately though, in the following months a plague killed all the Portuguese of the garrison (50-70 portuguese soldiers) and by 1697 the defense of the fort was in the hand of Sheikh Daud of Faza with 17 of his family, 8 African men and 50 African women. After several other sieges from then, the Omani Arabs successfully took over the fort and with this conquest taking the whole coast of Kenya and Tanzania with Zanzibar and Pemba under their control. The fort had clearly become a vital possession for anyone with the intention of controlling Mombasa Island or the surrounding areas of trade. The struggle didn’t just end there though, the Portuguese were not one to accept defeat so easily as they retook Fort Jesus in 1728, when the African soldiers mutinied against the Omanis; a take over that didn’t last so long unfortunately. Tables turned the following year when the Mombasa locals revolted against them and put under siege the garrison. Years later during colonization, the British used the fortress as a prison, until 1958, when they converted it into a historical monument.

Today, visitors get to explore the gun turrets, battlements and houses within the walls of Fort Jesus. The national monument combines Portuguese, Arab and British elements, representing the major powers that held it at different times in history. The presence of the Portuguese and British is felt through their respective cannons; The Portuguese cannons had a range of 200 meters and are longer than the British cannons which had a range of 300 meters. The Omani Arabs on the other hand, left their mark throughout the fort with numerous Koran inscriptions showcased on the wooden door posts and ceiling beams whereas a former meeting hall supported by 5 stone pillars to the ceiling portrays their Muslim tradition of 5 pillars.

Those interested in learning more about the struggles that the fortress has housed over the years will be delighted by the spectacular sound and light shows hosted by the fort 3 nights in a week. On the night of the show, visitors are welcomed into the Fort by guards in flowing robes brandishing flaming torches. They are then led to a specially designed and choreographed show that uses lights, sound effects and costumed actors to bring to life the long and turbulent history of the Fort. After the show, the visitors are treated to a candlelit dinner in the open courtyard of the Fort, under the stars. The sound and light show can also be combined with a sunset dhow cruise on the Mombasa harbor.

Hotels and Resorts

Hemingways Watamu

July 17, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

Welcome to Hemingways Watamu,

This Indian Ocean beach resort is everyone’s favorite. Guests just keep coming back for more. Maybe it’s the location – right in the middle of the pristine white sand beach of Watamu; perhaps it’s the big game fishing – one of the top destinations in the world for this sport; or maybe it’s the fantastic personal service and sincere charm of this established hotel that has come to represent Kenyan coastal luxury to so many families and couples over the years.

Hemingways’ 76 bright, airy rooms all offer a view of the Indian Ocean horizon. Every room is en-suite, air-conditioned and has mosquito netting, a fridge and a personal safe. You’ll also find a fan, telephone, minibar, hairdryer and kettle in your room. Their restaurant also serves the freshest sea-food, straight from the ocean.

There’s just so much to do here – relax in the poolside bar of the resort working your way through their cocktail menu; play a round of golf on the nearby world class course, Vipingo Ridge; learn to kite-surf; get your PADI certificate, take a sunset dhow cruise on Mida Creek; or go on safari for a few days in Tsavo or the Masai Mara.

If the world is your oyster – Hemingways is your pearl.

– Owner’s Description

Lodges and Camps

Ol Seki Hemingways Mara

July 17, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

“I’ve stayed at lodges all over Masai Mara many times and Hemingways is up there with the best” John, Thailand

This private tented camp bordering the Masai Mara is your enclave of luxury in the wildest terrain of Kenya. They have a choice of 10 exclusive tents in which to host you and the entire 200km square of Naboisho Conservancy to reveal exclusively to you.

So what’s special about Ol Seki?

The location – The conservancy borders the Mara, no fences to inhibit the migration of animals which means you should see the big five and all the other indigenous animals on your check list right here, sometimes within five minutes of the camp. Only vehicles from the properties are allowed in the conservancy, so you see wildlife, not minibuses. The view from the camp is spectacular, the Mara is mostly flat plains but we are elevated on a rocky escarpment so you can see for miles.

The tents – The size of the tents is remarkable and the exquisite paleness of the colours compliments the beauty of the design.

The people – Majority of Ol Seki staff were brought up within a 15km radius of the camp. They know the land intimately and they care about it. Everyone has an excellent knowledge of the area, not only the guides. So if you’re in the dining tent and you point to the hills and ask the waiter what they’re called, he’ll tell you the name and what it means.

The service – Ol Seki is small and personally tailor every day to suit what you want. They are friendly, totally flexible and dedicated to making your time at Ol Seki an unparalleled adventure in the realms of safari.

The camp is named after the Ol Seki tree (known in English as the sandpaper tree) which in Ma, the local Masai language, means “blessed”. It’s a peace tree and the branches are used to settle disputes. This is apt because the creation of Naboisho, which means “coming together” has brought peace between agriculture and wildlife in the conservancy and has helped to forge a harmonious relationship between the local Masai and tourist enterprises in the area.”

– Owner’s Description.

Hotels and Resorts

Hemingways Nairobi

July 16, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

A warm welcome to guests at Hemingways Nairobi,

The debut of this 45-room boutique hotel elevates the standard of luxury service for travellers in the region. Beautiful in its symmetry and flooded with natural light, this plantation-style property is airy and spacious. Its 80 squared metre bedrooms each have a private balcony overlooking the iconic silhouette of the Ngong Hills.

Hallmark Hemingways hospitality, borne out of decades of expertise in welcoming guests to Kenya, makes guests the focus of their every design. This new hotel, only a 40-minute drive away from Nairobi’s international airport, completes Hemingways’ definitive Collection which encompasses the beach and the bush.

Hemingways’ guest-attention is personal and sincere, offering a seamless service from the moment guests touchdown in Kenya to the final adieu of their departure. They are there to enhance your experience and surprise you with the detailed care they give you during your stay. Your dedicated butler will know that you prefer Earl Grey to Assam with your scones and Cornish clotted cream, and he’ll remember which trousers you like pressed flat and which ones need a central crease.

So while you’re reposing in the spa or discussing the delicacies of the a la carte menu with their Michelin-starred chef in the private dining room, back in your suite your butler will have dimmed the lights, adjusted your personalised pillows, set out your nightcap and arranged the morning’s outing to the game park down to the last detail.

Lofty, expansive rooms with vast, bright en-suite bathrooms are characteristic of hemingways’ boutique hotel’s wonderful sense of space and use of natural light. The hotel has 45 high-ceilinged rooms, two of which are penthouse style Presidential Suites and 43 Junior Suites culminating in vaulted beams. Muted colours and textured fabrics in ecru and taupe create an ambiance of contemporary-chic while subtle touches of brass, mahogany and leather bear reference to the classic elegance of vintage East African safaris. Your attentive butler is on hand to rustle up a treat from the pantry and tend to the artisan bouquets of fresh roses in your room. Beyond the balustrade of your private balcony, Hemingways have chosen for you a view of The Green Hills of Africa, as described in Hemingway’s novel.

Room Features

Spacious en-suite bathroom lined with hand cut Italian marble, walk-in wardrobe, double vanity, separate toilet, bath and shower
Complimentary wired and Wi-Fi internet acces
Pop-up 40″ LED television
Dual Telephone lines with conference call and speakerphone capabilities call forwarding and voice mall
Bathroom telephone
Air conditioning and ceiling fan
Personalised bar
Electronic safe with charging socket and space for 17” laptop
Hairdryer
Bathrobes & Slippers
Overnight kit
Hypoallergenic pillows available
Finest Egyptian cotton bed linen and towels
Complimentary daily newspaper (local)
Same day international newspapers available
On request laptop PC, DVD player, fax machine, Playstation 3, Xbox 360

Luxury Suite Features:

Early check-in and late check-out, on request and subject to availability
Complimentary international daily newspaper of choice
Laptop PC, DVD player, fax machine

– Owner’s Description.

Historical Sites

Vasco Da Gama’s Memorabilia

July 11, 2013 zurukenya Leave a comment

It stands on the Northern end of Casuarina Beach atop rocks that provide stunning views along the coast; an architectural memorabilia affiliated with Vasco Da Gama and his exploring adventures. One of Malindi’s top attractions, the Vasco Da Gama pillar came into existence in 1498 built as a sign of appreciation for the hospitality of the then sultan of Malindi, and still stands today as one of the oldest remaining monuments in Africa. Its erection was met with resistance from the muslim community and as a matter of fact what many do not know is that the Portuguese explorer had not only built one pillar but two. The first pillar had been erected near the sultana’s palace however due to christian-muslim animosity then, the pillar was demolished sighting that the cross surmounting it was seen as encouraging Christianity. Vasco was later allowed to build the second pillar on the cliff where it stands today only after explaining to the sultan of its importance.

It may come across to many as just a simple monument but this coral pillar right here might well define the essence of colonial intrusion into the country and East Africa at large, with the Portuguese being the first Europeans to explore the country. Vasco Da Gama’s arrival into Kenya was led by his endeavor into finding a sea route to India and Malindi being well placed as a sea route to and from the east coast, saw the pillar serve well as a landmark that could be sighted from a far by those approaching the harbour from the sea.

Today the Pillar is a frequent for couples what with the cool breeze and spectacular view, it has also become a good fishing ground; practiced either leisurely or as a sport and you will definitely not fail to spot the photographers who offer instant photo services to the many visitors. Make this the site to see next time you are in Malindi!!