Car Travel

If time is not too much of an issue, consider going on a self-drive safari. There is very little that can beat the thrill of setting off on your own adventure. Poor road conditions in many places means there's often a big difference between distance on a map and driving time (for example, it takes about six hours to drive from Nairobi to the Mara, a 150-mile [240km] journey). However, don’t let this discourage your sense of adventure; driving between parks is a fantastic way to see the country. There are a number of companies that specialize in hiring 4x4s as well as camping equipment, and most will also offer the services of a driver-cum-mechanic (at an extra fee). Expect to pay from $135 a day to hire a 4x4, about $35 a day for camping equipment and $20 a day for a driver.

Self-drive safari companies

Erikson Rover Safaris. Nakuru, Nakuru. 072/464–7982; www.roversafari.com.

Roving Rovers. Nakuru, Nakuru. 072/355–4557; www.rovingrovers.com.