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2025 Kenya Safari with Optional Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

Trip Guide for Booked Guests

2025 Kenya Safari with Optional Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

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Overview

Before You Go

Getting There

Trip Information

Kenya Trip Itinerary

Rwanda Optional Gorilla Trekking Schedule

WhatsApp Group

Important Contact Information

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Overview

Your 2024 Kenya Luxury Safari and Optional Rwanda Gorilla Trekking will be here before you know it! Your personalized travel documents, confirming your trip inclusions and airport transfer details, were sent to you via email on January 17th. If you have not received them, please check your junk or spam folder and if you don’t find them there, please call us (952) 405-9309 or email [email protected]

Below you will find additional information to help you prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.

Before You Go

PERSONAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

All documentation required for this itinerary is the sole responsibility of the guest. Brand g Vacations will not be responsible for advising and/or obtaining required travel documentation for any passenger, or for any delays, damages, and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip, related to improper or absent travel documentation. It is suggested that copies of important documents, including your passport and visas, be kept in a separate place, in case the originals are lost or stolen.

Passport: A passport that is valid for at least six (6) months after your return date is required for this program. Your passport should have a minimum of two blank pages for the entry visas.

Visas:

Kenya: Citizens of almost every country require and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya. Please remember to print and bring your visa with you.

Rwanda (optional post-tour – only applies to those who have signed up in advance): Entry visas are required for citizens of most countries including the USA, and may be purchased at the port of entry for $50usd. We recommend you bring cash (like new bills) in case credit card facilities are not working.

Travel Protection: Travel insurance is strongly recommended. If you have not purchased a policy already, you may do so by contacting your travel agent or Brand g Vacations. You may also get a quote and purchase a policy online from Brand g’s recommended travel insurance provider, Travel Insured International. Click HERE to get a quote. Please be sure to carry all policy information with you during your program.

HEALTH AND MOBILITY

Vaccinations: 

No vaccinations are required for entering Kenya or Rwanda at the time of this printing, but it is recommended that you discuss available vaccinations and any other health concerns you may have with your personal physician or a travel medicine specialist. While not absolutely required, we highly recommend that all guests obtain a vaccination for Yellow Fever to avoid any issues with entering Kenya. It is technically only required if traveling through a country where Yellow Fever is endemic. However, there are cases where travelers have been denied entry without the vaccine.

We recommend you consult the following CDC links for more information regarding health and vaccinations for both countries and also that you consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic to discuss your current vaccinations and their recommendations based on your individual health.

CDC Kenya
CDC Rwanda

Physical Limitations: The is an active trip, and there is much to see and do. Most safari activities will be conducted in jeeps, so guests should be able to climb in and out of transportation with little to no assistance. For activities in Nairobi and some optional activities it may be necessary to walk long distances over uneven terrain. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that you be in good physical condition for the main, Kenya, trip.

Those participating in the optional Rwanda extension will need to hike a long distance through very uneven, mountainous, often muddy terrain to reach the gorillas. Therefore, we recommend you be in good physical condition to participate in this part of the trip. If you have concerns, please contact us.

Medical: Medical facilities are not always easily accessible during the more rural portions of the trip. Any medical expenses incurred during the trip are the guest’s own responsibility, and neither Brand g nor the local ground operator is responsible for cost or quality of medical care received. Guests should bring an adequate supply of prescription medications with them as it may be difficult to fill prescriptions in country. Guests should also plan to bring a personal first-aid kit with over-the-counter medications, Band-Aids, bug bite treatments as well as Benadryl any other basic first aid treatments you feel you may need as these will also be difficult if not impossible to find in country.

Please consult this Healthy Packing List for Kenya, provided by the US CDC. It is a good guideline for items you may wish to pack. Please note, while all of the items on the list are optional and at your discretion, it is not necessary to bring the following from the list: altitude medication, suture kit, water purification tablets, bed net.

A travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses as well as medical evacuation while traveling internationally is highly recommended.

Dietary Preferences: Please advise us of any special dietary restrictions at least 45 days (January 5th) prior to your departure. This information will be provided to the proper personnel, and where possible within local conditions and limitations, every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail as possible concerning any medically related dietary concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated, and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.

LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

While there are no restrictions on the number of bags each guest may bring it is highly recommended that each guest bring only one checked bag. Additionally, all airlines impose restrictions on both size and weight, and many airlines restrict the number of bags per person. Each guest must check with their selected air carrier for limitations prior to departure, as luggage restrictions are subject to change. Guests who exceed an airline’s luggage restrictions may be asked by the airline to pay the airline’s overweight/oversized luggage fees.

An airline’s limitations on the weight and size of checked and carry-on baggage are usually found on their website or may be obtained by calling the airline directly. Please remember that international (over the water) and domestic (intra continental) restrictions may not be the same.

Luggage Allowances for Included Flights: The total luggage allowance for all flights included as part of the itinerary is 15kg (33lb) per person, packed in a soft sided bag. You may bring on board a small personal item as well as long as the weight does not exceed 5kg (11lb). However, it is important to note that your personal item counts toward your total weight limitation of 15kg. CLICK HERE for the complete Air Kenya Baggage Policy. If you have extensive travel outside the Kenya program and therefore more luggage than allowed, it may be possible to leave luggage behind in Nairobi prior to safari.

Please note CPAP machines are considered assistive devices and thus do not count towards the total weight limit. It is also important to note that each safari camp includes some amount of laundry services at no additional fee.

Your luggage and all personal belongings are solely your responsibility throughout the trip. Brand g Vacations is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.

Please place luggage tags on the outside of all of your bags, including carry on and hand luggage, and include a copy of your contact information during the trip on the inside of your checked bags. Valuables and medication should only be packed in your carry-on bags (unless required to be placed in checked bags by your airline).

Getting There

AIRPORT SECURITY AND CHECK-IN

Please be sure to contact your airline prior to departure and verify there have been no changes to the flight number or schedule. If you have an airport transfer confirmed with Brand g, please advise of any schedule change affecting your airport pick up time.

Familiarize yourself with current airport security procedures and arrive at the airport at least two and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure. During peak travel times, you may want to arrive three (3) hours prior to your scheduled departure time.

CUSTOMS

Entry documents will be required at all border crossings, so please carry proper identification with you all times, and never place it in checked luggage.

When arriving by airplane, it is not unusual for a border guard to ask you questions such as “where are you from,” “where are you going,” “how long will you be there,” or “what is the purpose of your trip.” Always answer honestly and politely.

If you are bringing laptops, cameras, or other electrical equipment with you on your trip, you may be required to register these items with the local customs authority in order to ensure you are not charged duty on these items when you return home.

Most items you purchase internationally can be brought back into the US and Canada. We do recommend, however, that you check with both your home country’s customs office for current restrictions, as well as with the embassies of the countries you are visiting for any restrictions on items that may be unlawful to take outside their borders.

When you return to your home country, you should be prepared to declare everything you purchased or acquired while traveling. Many countries will ask you to complete a customs form, which will require descriptions and values of the items. These forms are easier to complete if you keep your sales receipts easily accessible. Most countries have set customs duty exemptions for both quantity and value of certain items. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with these allowances and limits prior to your travel.

CHECK-IN/HOTEL CHECK-OUT

Please be advised that most hotels do not allow check-in earlier than 3:00pm. If you arrive at the hotel before 3:00pm, there may be a wait until the room becomes available. Check-out at most host hotel properties is 12:00pm. If your arrival or departure schedule does not coincide with these times, you may ask the hotel(s) to store your baggage while you explore independently. Please note that every effort is made to ensure that your hotel room is available and ready for occupancy upon your arrival, however a short wait for your room to become available may be unavoidable. Depending on your arrival or departure times, you may wish to purchase an early check-in, late check-out, or additional hotel night in order to guarantee availability of your room. Feel free to contact Brand g Vacations or your travel agent to book additional services.

TRANSFERS

Guests who provided their independently arranged flight details to Brand g Vacations no later than 45 days (January 5th) prior to departure, will automatically have airport arrival and departure transfers arranged. Flight arrangements must also be made in accordance with Brand g vacations flight recommendations. Guests are responsible for checking with the airlines and providing their most up-to-date flight details. Please contact your travel agent or Brand g Vacations if you have any questions about your flight arrangements.

Arrival transfers are provided from the Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport(NBO) to the Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel. The transfer from airport to the hotel takes about 30 minutes. Please consult the travel documents, which will be emailed to you approximately 30 days prior to the trip start date for instructions on where to meet your transfer at the airport.

Departure Transfers for the main Kenya program are provided from the Crowne Plaza Hotel, to the Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport(NBO).

Rwanda Post Trip Transfers are provided from the Kigali Serena Hotel to the Kigali International Airport in plenty of time for your scheduled departure. You will be advised of your transfer pickup time during the trip, closer to the time of departure.

Travel Delays: If you experience a travel delay while still in your home country, after working with your air carrier to revise your flight schedule, please contact Brand g’s Operations Office at 952-405-9309 to advise us of your revised arrival date and time. If the line is busy or you are calling outside of general business hours, please leave a message.

If you have already departed your home country, please contact our local staff at the numbers provided below in the Important Contact Information section. Please note, this section may not be added until we email your personalized travel documents to you about 30 days prior to the trip start date.

If you purchased travel insurance that covers flight delay and cancellation expenses, you will also want to contact your travel insurance company to start a claim for expenses incurred during your delay. If the delay is serious enough that you will miss the starting point of your cruise, any additional hotel, and/or flight arrangements necessary to meet your group will be at your expense.

Baggage Delays: Baggage delays unfortunately occur from time to time, especially during peak travel periods. If you discover any bag did not make it to your destination, do not leave the airport baggage area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your claim. If you have an airport transfer scheduled, and are traveling with a companion, we recommend that one person exit the baggage claim area and locate the representative to inform him or her of the situation. This will allow the representative to ensure that the transfer is properly provided. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel itinerary, along with the hotel and ship contact information. Report your lost baggage to your Brand g Vacations host and provide them with a copy of your Lost Baggage Report. Brand g Vacations is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and/or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.

Trip Information

PROGRAM STAFF

A Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will be with you during your travel program to handle all the details, leaving you to relax and enjoy your vacation.

CONTACTING HOME

The ability to stay in touch with friends and family is an important part of travel, and many guests choose to bring cell phones on the trip. International roaming charges can be expensive, and it is advisable to contact your local carrier to determine the charges and plans available for each country you are visiting, then select the best available plan for your expected usage. In some countries, SIM cards are available for purchase that can be used in an unlocked phone (call your carrier to determine if your phone is, or can be, unlocked), providing a local number that can be used both locally and internationally, usually at a significantly lower rate.

Making international calls from the hotels is possible, but costly. Connection fees are usually applied, in addition to other call charges.

While cell phone service is typically available in the larger cities, service in more rural areas may be extremely limited, and at times may not be available at all. Should you choose to bring your cell phone, please refrain from conducting conversations during the guides’ excursion commentary

INTERNET ACCESS

Each hotel and lodge throughout the trip offers free WiFi internet. Please note that in some cases internet access is only available in the main lodge, while in others it is only available in guest rooms. WiFi strength and availability may vary greatly.

CURRENCY AND MONEY MATTERS

In Kenya, the unit of currency is the Kenya Shilling. If you wish to exhange money, the small amount of local currency you may need during your stay in Kenya can be obtained at authorized facilities (such as hotels, banks and foreign exchange bureaus) or through withdrawal at an ATM. You may also exchange money at the airport currency exchange if you wish. In general, we suggest that you limit the amount of money you convert into local currency and exchange only what you think you will spend before leaving Kenya. As exchange rates fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for exchange rates: www.xe.com.

Please note that US Dollars are accepted everywhere although avoid taking with you US dollar notes older than 2006 as these will not be accepted. Your bills should be in good condition with no markings or tears.

Credit cards are accepted on a limited basis most hotels, restaurants and shops in larger cities accept at least one variety of major credit card such as Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Travelers who wish to use their ATM card overseas should check with their own individual bank to verify whether the ATM card will be valid in a particular country. Please contact your bank and/or credit card companies to let them know that you will be leaving the country to avoid any problems using your credit card(s) overseas.

In Rwanda, the currency is the Rwanda franc. However, the US dollar is the hard currency of preference.

It still may be helpful to have a small amount of local currency with you. However, we urge you to try to spend all of your Francs while you are in Rwanda because the reverse exchange rate from Francs is very unfavorable. Be aware that only paper currency will normally be accepted for exchange. Very few places in Rwanda accept credit cards. Only the major hotels in Kigali plus a few airlines accept them. There are money-changing facilities in Kigali, which we recommend you use, as it is more difficult to change money outside the city. Visitors are advised that if they are exchanging US Dollars, the notes should be no smaller than $100 denomination, and should have been issued no earlier than 2000. We recommend that you carry cash for convenience and security, and that you change no more than US$200-300 of this into Rwanda francs at the start of your tour.

As exchange rates fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for exchange rates: www.xe.com.

GRATUITIES

Gratuities for the included components of this program have been pre-paid. You are welcome to provide additional tips at your discretion.

SMOKING

The hotels and lodges have open areas where smoking is allowed. All hotel rooms and lodge accommodations are non-smoking. We ask everyone to refrain from smoking while on excursions.

ELECTRICAL CURRENT

The voltage in Kenya is officially 240/50Hz. To use any electrical product, which does not accept 240 volts, you will need an electrical converter. We recommend bringing an adapter for use in the hotels. The most common socket types are plug Type G. Because the voltage may fluctuate at times, we also recommend unplugging your devices when not in use or when leaving them unattended.

 

The voltage in Rwanda is officially 230/50Hz. To use any electrical product, which does not accept 230 volts, you will need an electrical converter. We recommend bringing an adapter for use in the hotels. The most common socket types are plug Type C and Type J. Because the voltage may fluctuate at times, we also recommend unplugging your devices when not in use or when leaving them unattended.

EXCURSIONS

Your tour program includes comprehensive excursions and safaris led by a local English-speaking guides; these excursions have been designed to provide you with the best possible experience. Your Brand g Vacations host will provide details on each day’s excursion(s) and timing. Should guests be concerned about any aspect of an excursion, please inform your local guide or Brand g Vacations host.

ETIQUETTE

Your itinerary takes you into some areas where locals are simply living their daily lives. Should you wish to take a photo of locals, please request their permission first (simply pointing to your camera and allowing them to nod is sufficient).

Many of the local customs in Kenya and Rwanda differ greatly from Western culture. Your local guides will be able to assist with any questions you may have.

We understand it may be hard to resist, but kindly ask that you not give any money to children. A better alternative would be something from a far-away place, e.g., postcards, small notepads or other school supplies, small personal hygiene products, etc. These items should not be given to any individual child or family – instead, ask your guide to give them to a village elder or the local school.

FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Many of the places we visit on this itinerary are not handicapped accessible. Please note: The American with Disabilities Act does not apply in either country and accessibility to some sights may be limited for those with mobility impairments.

Some excursions involve walking over uneven ground. Additionally, some excursions are walking tours only. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.

At its sole discretion, Brand g reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a passenger to end his or her trip if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect his or her own health, safety, and enjoyment, or that of other passengers.

SECURITY

In the countries in which we operate, pickpockets are not uncommon, and caution is encouraged. Brand g Vacations cannot be held liable for loss of money, jewelry, or other valuable items from a hotel, or while on an excursion. A travel insurance policy will typically cover most incidents of loss or theft. Please make use of the in-room safes available in the host hotels.

WATER

Please do not drink the tap water in Kenya or Rwanda or use it for brushing your teeth. The water is suitable for showers and baths but should not be consumed. Drinking water will be provided in each hotel/lodge as well as during excursions.

WEATHER

Weather forecasts are widely available on the Internet, and some of the favorites for large, international cities are www.weather.com and www.cnn.com/weather.

Average temperatures:  

Kenya : 82/59 degrees F
Kigali Rwanda: 82/62 degrees F
Volcanoes National Park Area, Rwanda: 76/53 degrees F

ALTITUDE

Altitude will not be a factor for the Kenya portion of the trip. For those participating in the Rwanda Gorilla trekking, you could experience altitudes of up to 7,000 feet. If you are particularly sensitive to altitude we recommend you consult with your physician or travel medicine specialist for a prescription of altitude medication. Obviously trekking at these altitudes does require more effort and therefore we recommend you be in good physical condition.

WHAT TO BRING

Travel Essentials: The following items are essential for any destination: sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant, hat, rain jacket and umbrella. It is recommended that you bring duplicates of prescription eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any medications (generic equivalents are usually easier to obtain), a personal medical kit as recommended in the Health and Mobility section above, copies of credit card information, and copies of your passport information pages and visas.

If you bring photographic equipment, make sure they are packed away in a dustproof camera bag. Make sure to bring additional batteries or the charger and an ample supply of memory cards. (It is better to bring several small memory cards than one big one in case one gets corrupted). The use of drones in Kenya is not allowed without a specific license from the government.

We also recommend bringing the following items:

  • Binoculars, camera, flashlight, extra batteries
  • Fold-up daypack or shoulder pack to carry items

 

Clothing:

Casual and comfortable clothing is most useful. It is certainly not necessary to bring a separate change of clothing for each day and evening, and it is recommended that you keep luggage to a minimum for your own comfort and ease of transport.

• Casual lightweight cotton, khaki or neutral colored clothes for safari
• Fleece or sweater and a warm jacket for game drives or cool evenings
• Light raincoat and/or fold-up umbrella
• Swimsuit, scarf or bandana, kanga or sarong
• Wide brimmed hat/cap
• Personal toiletries, sun barrier creams; lip balm and insect repellent
• Binoculars, camera, flashlight and accessories (including any batteries and extra memory cards)
• Sunglasses and prescription glasses
• Soft-sided luggage and fold-up daypack or shoulder pack to carry items
• Travel detergent
• Comfortable walking shoes with soft soles and beach sandals

Avoiding the Baggage Blues

• Please be aware that you will not be allowed to bring plastic bags into the country and any bags that you bring in with you will have to be handed over on arrival at the airport.
• Make sure there is contact information inside your bags as well as outside
• In case your luggage is delayed make sure you pack essential supplies such as medication, contact lenses, toiletries, etc. in your carry-on bag.
• Please be advised that regulations at most international points of arrival do not permit passengers to be assisted with baggage handling inside secured passenger areas.

In Rwanda (optional post-tour only): Don’t forget a windbreaker or a light raincoat. When tracking for gorillas you will be in a rain forest, so it will more likely than not, rain. You will need good hiking boots and a hat if you are gorilla tracking. Garden gloves, to avoid stinging nettles, and gators, are recommended. The climate in Volcanoes National Park is both cool and wet, so you should be sure to dress appropriately. This means plenty of layers so that you can stay warm when sitting with the gorillas, but strip off when hiking. It also means waterproof jackets and pants, and sturdy hiking boots or shoes with sufficient grip for slippery, uphill terrain. There are plenty of stinging nettles, so thick-woven clothing and gaiters are also recommended. If you’re susceptible to sunburn, bring sunglasses, a sunhat, and sunscreen for when the sun makes an appearance in between downpours.

Sport jackets and evening dress are not required at any time during this program; however, you may wish to pack a few smart outfits for evening meals or nights out on your own.

Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, with good ankle support, are highly recommended.

Shopping:

Paintings, batiks and carved figurines of people and animals are among Kenya’s most popular souvenir items. Locally-woven sisal baskets are durable and attractive and are sold at much lower prices than you will find in the American and European shops that have recently begun to import them. Some of the best indigenous artwork is found in Nairobi’s smaller galleries and Nairobi is also a good place to purchase tailored safari clothing and colorful African fabrics. African jewelry is also popular with overseas visitors, particularly the beaded adornments of the Maasai people and pieces made of amber, Tanzanite and Tsavorite. Soapstone carvings from the Kisii District are available in polished black (as well as their natural shades of grey and pink). Tribal artefacts (such as spears, shields, masks and gourds) are widely sold in shops and by street hawkers.
In places where prices are not marked, bargaining is usually an accepted practice.

In Rwanda, wood carvings such as traditional masks, raffia work baskets, mobiles and jewelry, musical instruments, paintings, batik, bags, scarves and beading are among the most popular souvenir purchases. In places where prices are not marked, bargaining is usually an accepted practice.

  • Bring your purchases home with you. Unless you are prepared to wait up to a year to receive your merchandise, do not have it shipped – not even by air freight.
  • Do not purchase expensive goods of supposed high quality unless you are absolutely sure of what you are buying (or unless you like the item enough to buy it even if it is not authentic or as valuable as you thought). Unless you are an expert in gems, antiques, artefacts etc. do not assume that the quality and/or value of your purchase is as represented by the vendor, even if you have been referred to the shop by AKORN. AKORN does not profess to employ experts in the quality and/or value of retail or wholesale merchandise.
  • Always take the time to read the charge slips for credit card purchases before you sign them. This may seem obvious; but in the excitement of making a foreign purchase, shoppers sometimes overlook this and are unpleasantly surprised when they return home and are billed by the credit card company. Taking a few moments to review the charge slip before signing it (and computing the exchange rate to be sure you are charged the right amount) can save you headaches later.

 

For purchases made abroad that are being hand-carried home, keep all sales receipts with you (in your hand luggage). It is also suggested that you pack all of your foreign purchases together in one bag (separate from your other personal belongings). You might consider bringing some “bubble wrap” and string for packing any fragile merchandise you purchase while traveling.

Please note that the purchase of “national treasures” for export from any country is strictly illegal and that the onus rests entirely on the buyer. In addition, U.S. and Canadian Customs prohibit the importation of any products made from endangered species of wildlife. If you are approached by someone offering this type of “curio” for sale, do not buy it. International agreements are such that, if you are caught with such a restricted item, it will almost certainly lead to prosecution.

Kenya Trip Itinerary

We will do our best to keep to the schedule below. If any adjustments are necessary, we will inform you the day prior. Most timings during the safari portions of the trip will be provided by lodge staff and take precedence over this schedule.

Thursday February 20 (Dinner) Nairobi Arrival: Today is at your leisure to relax and recover from traveling. Lunch is on your own.

  • 9:00am – 12:00pm: A Brand g hospitality desk will be available in the hotel lobby. Your Brand g hosts will be there to provide you with program materials and let you know of any updates. If you arrive after Noon, we will provide you with materials and updates this evening at dinner.
  • 5:30 – 6:30pm: This evening, a meet and greet has been arranged in the Cin Cin Bar within the hotel. Come by to meet your fellow travelers and raise a toast to the beginning of our adventure.
  • 6:30: This evening, dinner has been arranged in Lord Delamare Restaurant within the hotel.

 

Friday, February 21 (Breakfast/Lunch) Nairobi

  • 6:00 – 10:30am: Breakfast is included in Lord Delamare Restaurant within the hotel.
  • 9:50am: Meet in the hotel lobby ready to depart for a full day tour including the Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum, lunch and Forest Folk Stories.
  • 5:30pm: Approximate return to the hotel.
  • Dinner tonight is on your own. We encourage you to enjoy dinner at one of the hotel restaurants. If you do wish to venture outside the hotel, please consult your Brand g tour leaders or local guides so that we can arrange safe transportation for you.
  • You may wish to settle any incidental expenses with hotel reception before turning in this evening to save time in the morning.

 

Saturday, February 22 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Nairobi/Amboseli National Park

  • 6:00 – 7:15am: Breakfast is included in Lord Delamare Restaurant within the hotel.
  • 6:30am: By this time, place your luggage just outside your hotel room door for collection by porters. Please ensure you have a blue Brand g paper luggage tag on each piece of luggage with your first and last name clearly written on the tag for easy identification. Alternatively, you may bring your own luggage to the lobby when it is time to depart.
  • 7:25am: By this time, you should be checked out with hotel reception. Please identify your luggage, board your Land Cruiser so that we may depart the hotel by 7:30am. The drive to our lodge in the Amboseli National Park is approximately 5 – 6 hours depending on traffic. We plan to make a stop along the way for a restroom break.
  • 1:30pm: Expected arrival at Tawi Lodge for check-in, lunch and time to refresh after the drive and enjoy the property.
  • At check-in you’ll be briefed on the timing of your afternoon game drive and dinner.

 

Sunday, February 23 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Amboseli National Park

  • Morning game drive followed by breakfast. Lodge staff will inform you of additional optional activities available at no additional cost during the day. Or simply relax and enjoy the property, a delicious lunch, an afternoon game drive and dinner.

 

Monday, February 24 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Amboseli National Park/Ol Pejeta Conservancy

  • 6:00am – 7:00am: Breakfast
  • 7:00am: Leave your luggage outside your door ready for collection by porters.
  • 7:15am: Identify luggage and board Land Cruisers.
  • 8:00am – 9:20am: Flight from Tawi to Kamok airstrip.
  • 10:00am: Expected arrival to Sanctuary Tambarare Camp for check-in.
  • After check-in, get to know the property before enjoying lunch, an afternoon game drive and a delicious dinner. Other optional activities may be offered by lodge staff. They will also inform you of the timing for tomorrow’s activities.

 

Tuesday, February 25 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Ol Pejeta Conservancy

  • Today, enjoy safari with a visit planned to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. For those of you who signed up, today is also the day for your optional Lion Tracking and/or Meet the Northern White Rhinos excursions.
  • 6:30am: Lion Tracking (optional with pre-registration only)
  • 8:30am: Meet the Northern White Rhinos (optional with pre-registration only)

 

Wednesday, February 26 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Ol Pejeta Conservancy/Masai Mara

  • 10:15am: Leave your luggage just outside your door for collection by porters.
  • 10:45am: Depart for Kamok Airstrip.
  • 11:00am – 12:15pm: Flight from Kamok Airstrip to Kirchwa Tembo Airstrip.
  • 12:45pm: Approximate arrival to Sanctuary Olonana Lodge for check-in, lunch, afternoon safari and dinner. Your lodge staff will inform you of daily meal timings and other activities offered.
  • Hot Air Balloon Briefing tonight at dinner for those who signed up in advance.

 

Thursday, February 27 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Masai Mara

  • Enjoy twice daily safaris, time to relax and delicious meals.
  • 4:30am: Balloon Safari excursion departs from the lodge. Bush breakfast is included (optional with pre-registration only)/

 

Friday, February 28 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Masai Mara

  • Enjoy twice daily safaris, time to relax and delicious meals.
  • Afternoon nature walk and Masai village visit can be arranged today (additional cost may apply).

 

Saturday, March 1 (Breakfast/Lunch) Masai Mara/Nairobi

  • 10:00am: Place your luggage just outside your door for collection.
  • 10:30am: Identify luggage and board Land Cruisers to depart the lodge.
  • 11:00am – 12:00pm: Flight from Tembo Airstrip to Nairobi Wilson Airport.
  • 12:30pm: Lunch at Carnivore restaurant.
  • 4:00pm: Approximate arrival at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for check-in.
  • Tonight, you are on your own for dinner.

 

Sunday, March 2 (Breakfast) Nairobi – departures

  • 6:30– 10:30am: Breakfast is included for everyone in Kitchen 9 restaurant at the hotel.

Independent Departures

At the assigned pick-up time (from the departure information provided to you during the trip) meet your transfer in the lobby of the hotel. You may contact the front desk for assistance with your luggage or bring it to the lobby on your own.

Guests Participating in Rwanda Add-On

  • Please refer to the below Rwanda Schedule for further details.

Rwanda Optional Gorilla Trekking Itinerary

We will do our best to keep to the schedule below. If any adjustments are necessary, we will inform you the day prior.

Sunday, March 2 (Breakfast) Nairobi/Kigali

  • 6:30 – 10:30am: Breakfast is included for everyone in Kitchen 9 restaurant at the hotel.
  • 8:30am: Set luggage just outside your hotel room door for collection, otherwise you may carry it to the lobby at departure time.
  • 9:45am: Identify luggage, board Land Cruisers and depart for the airport.
  • Lunch is on your own today. We suggest grabbing a bite at the airport in Nairobi.
  • 1:00 – 1:40pm: (1h 40m flying time with time change): Flight from Nairobi to Kigali Rwanda.
  • 3:00pm: Approximate arrival to Kigali Serena Hotel.
  • 5:00pm: Optional meeting with Joseline of the Tennis Rwanda Children’s Foundation in the Bar Lounge at the hotel. As a survivor of the Rwandan genocide, Joseline was inspired to start this organization to help local children.
  • 6:30pm: Dinner in Sokoni Restaurant at the hotel.

 

Monday, March 3 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Kigali/Musanze

  • 8:00am: Breakfast opens in Millma restaurant at the hotel.
  • 8:00am: Place your luggage outside your hotel room door for collection by porters. Alternatively you may bring your own luggage to the lobby with you at the time of departure this morning.
  • 9:00am: Depart for Kigali tour to include the Genocide Museum and Kimironko Market where you will see local fabrics, basket works, exotic fruits and souvenirs at low prices.
  • 12:30pm: Lunch at Nyurah Restaurant.
  • 2:30pm: Depart for Bishop’s House in Musanze. This area is known as the gateway to the Volcanoes National Park. We’ll have at least one stop on the way.
  • 5:30pm: Arrive and check in at Bishop’s House.
  • 7:00pm: Dinner

 

Tuesday, March 4 (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) Musanze/Volcanoes National Park

  • 6:00am: Early riser breakfast.
  • 6:40am: Depart to Volcanoes National Park.
  • 7:00am: Meet up with guides for briefing and group assignment. Porters are available for $20usd per person if you want someone to carry any gear.
  • We’ll return to Bishop’s House anywhere from 11:00am – 1:00pm depending on the location of the gorillas and the time it takes to get to them, and back to the park office.
  • Dinner time TBD depending on time of return from gorilla trekking.

 

Wednesday, March 5 (Breakfast/Lunch) Musanze/Kigali

  • 6:00 – 10:00am: Breakfast.
  • 10:00am: Depart for Kigali.
  • 1:00pm: Lunch at Republica Lounge in Kigali.
  • Your Brand g tour leader will advise your airport transfer time. Some guests will transfer directly from lunch, while others will have day room or overnight use at the Kigali Serena Hotel, prior to their scheduled airport transfers.
  • Dinner is on your own tonight.

WhatsApp Group

We have set up a WhatsApp group for this trip, which will help your trip hosts communicate reminders as well as important updates. It will also be a platform for you to communicate with your fellow guests throughout the trip.

At the start of the trip, we will set up a separate WhatsApp group specifically for photo sharing.

If you don’t already have WhatsApp on your phone, we encourage you to download the app and then join the group.

Scan to download the app to your Android phone.

Scan to download the app to your Apple phone.

Once you’ve successfully downloaded the app to your device, open the app on your phone then use the camera within the app to scan this code to join the group.

Important Contact Information

Please provide a copy of the final contacts to your family members or friends in case they need to reach you in the event of an emergency. When calling these numbers please specify that you are traveling with Brand g Vacations.

Kenya operates on EAT (Eastern Africa Time GMT+3 hours), so when it is 12:00pm in New York it is 7:00pm in Nairobi.

Rwanda operates on CAT (Central Africa Time GMT+2 hours), so when it is 12:00pm in New York it is 6:00pm in Kigali.

International telephone calls can be placed by dialing the International Access Code (+254 – Kenya) & (+250 – Rwanda), the country code and then the phone number. Should you need to utilize the local emergency mobile below, please specify that you are traveling with Brand g Vacations.

Kenya Emergency Contact:
Phone: +254 733 954415 Email: [email protected]Rwanda Emergency Contact:
Phone: +250 (0)788 310261 / 2 Email: [email protected] 

Brand g Trip Host: Jeff Gundvaldson +1 (612) 384-1866

PROGRAM DATE PROGRAM VENUE
February 20 – 22 Fairmont The Norfolk Telephone: +254 202265000
February 22 – 24 Tawi Lodge +254 722 745 552
February 24 – 26 Sanctuary Tambarare +254 768 776 377
February 26 – March 1 Sanctuary Olonana +254 710 600 339
March 1 – 2 Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport + 254-719-017000
March 2 – 3 & Dayroom on March 5 (Rwanda Optional Gorilla Trekking) Kigali Serena Hotel +250 788 184 500
March 3 – 5 (Rwanda Optional Gorilla Trekking) Bishop’s House +250 785 646 739

More for your money with Brand g!

All of our trips include arrival and departure airport transfers, most meals, included beverages and so much more! Plus our trips are hosted, meaning someone from Brand g will be with you the entire time to take care of the details, so you can simply relax and enjoy your vacation.

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