Follow the call of the wild in Kenya

After a couple of days acclimatising in Nairobi and visits to its giraffe sanctuary and elephant orphanage – the calming, charming Manzili House is the perfect resting place within this bustling urban hubbub; travel to visit the tribes of the Maasai Mara, who are proud to introduce visitors to their traditions and savannah-specific skillsets. Curious children will be as thrilled by the ‘Little Five’ as the Big – challenge them to spot an elephant shrew or leopard tortoise – although, with the highest density of lions in the world, you’re almost guaranteed to see those, too. Cottar’s 1920s Camp is a base with an all-encompassing, authentic magic. With luxurious safari tents (some for families), bush breakfasts, champagne picnics and sundowners with gold-standard Mara guides, all in a place with the largest concentration of terrestrial wildlife on earth.

To make this a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, go north and get your boots on the ground in the Borana Conservancy to see the lengths to which the teams go to in order to protect endangered and lesser-known species, such as the rhino, oryx and striped polecat. Rest weary feet and heads full of facts at Lengishu, where the influence of its Scottish owners blends seamlessly with Maasai cultural references. In the surrounding 32,000 acres, you might choose to go on a horseback safari or take a tour of Pride Rock (yes, Simba’s rock).An outing with Nissa, one of only 59 Silver guides in Kenya with more than 20 years’ experience, is also a must. Hopefully you’ll spot one of those protected animals on an unforgettable trek.