Kenya with Zoe Fitchet & Shannon Mullin

Dates

Sep 27 – Oct 4, 2024

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

8 days, 7 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Join Shannon and Zoe in the heart of this beautiful African country. With towering peaks, vibrant forests and massive savannah grasslands, Kenya provides the picture-perfect setting for your African adventure. On this 8-day expedition, you’ll visit conservation projects, zip-line through the Kereita Forest, create some beautiful art, hike and bike in the Great Rift Valley and take safari game drives to search for your favorite African animals. You’ll return home with lifelong memories and with a bit of luck, incredible photos of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and more! Please Note: This is a participatory camping trip, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents, and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!
$2,850USD
$2,995USD
Sep 27 – Oct 4, 2024
8 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Zoe & Shannon
Zoe & Shannon

Zoe is a wildlife conservation artist, who uses her work to raise awareness and funds for wildlife charities. Shannon is a pet portrait and wildlife artist, who creates lifelike coloured pencil drawings and tutorials. Join Zoe and Shannon for adventure and wildlife encounters; meeting new friends and experiencing the world in an amazing way!

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Trip Activities

  • Visit to the East Africa Wildlife Project in Suswa

  • Aberdare National Park Wildlife Safari Game Drive

  • Sonachi Crater Lake Guided Hike

  • Loita Hills Maasai Experience

  • Evening Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

  • Morning Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

  • Afternoon Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

  • Zip-lining in the Kereita Forest

Optional Activities*

  • Bicycle Safari in Hell's Gate National Park

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels and double tents (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers

  • Sleeping bag and pillow

  • Tips for your local Guide and driver

What's included by Your Host

Meet the group!

Informal Gathering
Once everyone has arrived and is all freshened up from a day of travel, we will gather together ahead of dinner to meet the group. We may all start off as strangers, but it won’t take long until we know each other well. Shannon and Zoe will be sure to make you all feel welcome as we begin this amazing adventure together!

Wildlife art for conservation

Informal Gathering
After finding out all about the amazing projects lead by the East Africa Wildlife Society, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role that art can play in supporting this vital work. Zoe uses her wildlife art to raise awareness and funds for projects and charities similar to the EAWS. This afternoon Zoe will lead a little Q&A all about wildlife conservation art, to inspire and encourage anyone who is interested to do same.

Farewell

Informal Gathering
Before we head off on our separate ways, Shannon and Zoe will gather you all together for the last night to share experiences and a few fun games!

Art workshop!

Informal Gathering
After a thrilling morning of zip lining through the forest, we have something much more calm and peaceful planned for the afternoon*. Shannon will guide you through step by step to create a beautiful elephant eye in coloured pencil. We will have all of our favourite materials available for you to use, so you don’t need to worry about having your own. The workshop will be suitable for all levels of experience; so if you are looking to work on techniques or having a go at something new, we will all be able to enjoy the time drawing this iconic animal together in the heart of Africa. *There will be some flexibility with the workshop as we will work closely with our guide to find the perfect time to get stuck into creating your very own drawing.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into NBO.

dinner

Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included.

Meet the group!

Once everyone has arrived and is all freshened up from a day of travel, we will gather together ahead of dinner to meet the group. We may all start off as strangers, but it won’t take long until we know each other well. Shannon and Zoe will be sure to make you all feel welcome as we begin this amazing adventure together!

Boulevard Hotel Nairobi

Night 1/1

Overnight in Nairobi.

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Day 2

Info

This morning you'll set out from Nairobi and make your way to the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Sagana River, where you’ll have the opportunity to take some photos of the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, enjoy a rafting adventure on the Sagana River and later, relax on the lawn at the campsite and enjoy an evening meal.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

lunch

Lunch is included.

Visit to the East Africa Wildlife Project in Suswa

4 Hours

Take time and support Kenya’s Wildlife frontline Defenders. Over 65% of wildlife in Kenya occurs outside gazetted national parks, reserves and sanctuaries. The conservancy movement in Kenya, over the years, have contributed immensely in securing safe additional spaces for wildlife outside the protected areas and in providing livelihood support to the community living adjacent with wildlife. Despite this, the conservancies, being privately or community-owned, do not receive direct funding support from the government to run their operations. The community rangers, who risk their lives daily in a quest to protect our wildlife and their refuge, lacks the necessary skills, live in deplorable conditions and often have inadequate equipment (transport during patrols, communication and data gathering tools) which poses a huge challenge for them to effectively deliver on their role and exposes them to several risks. EAWLS designed a programme in 2017 to address these needs. The programme involves supporting training based on conservancies needs; provide assorted equipment for patrol and data gathering and; provide other support for better living of the scouts. So far, 3 conservancies have benefited including Enonkishu, Ol Kinyei and Mt. Suswa

dinner

Dinner at the campsite is included.

Wildlife art for conservation

After finding out all about the amazing projects lead by the East Africa Wildlife Society, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role that art can play in supporting this vital work. Zoe uses her wildlife art to raise awareness and funds for projects and charities similar to the EAWS. This afternoon Zoe will lead a little Q&A all about wildlife conservation art, to inspire and encourage anyone who is interested to do same.

Camping near the Sagana River

Night 1/1

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Day 3

Info

After breakfast, you'll set off on a morning safari through Aberdare National Park. Your first encounter with African wildlife will include elephants and giraffes as well as Africa’s second-largest population of black rhinos. You’ll continue to the shores of Lake Naivasha and your base for the next couple of nights.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campsite is included.

Aberdare National Park Wildlife Safari Game Drive

3 Hours

In contrast to the open plains of the Maasai Mara, Aberdare has a diverse ecosystem. Streams and rivers intersect throughout the valley with the soaring Aberdare Mountain Range in the background. Making your way through the varied ecosystem of the park will reveal rhinos, elephants and buffaloes and perhaps some of the more elusive of the Big 5, the lion and the leopard.

lunch

Lunch is included.

dinner

Dinner at the campsite is included.

Camping at Lake Naivasha

Night 1/2

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Day 4

Info

Today you’ll hike around Crater Lake and after working up a sweat, relax back at camp for lunch. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon or sign up for an optional adventure in Hell's Gate National Park. Those choosing the afternoon excursion will hop on bicycles and cycle through varied terrain, encountering zebras, warthogs and gazelles.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campsite is included.

Sonachi Crater Lake Guided Hike

5 Hours

This hike will take you through the stunning Great Rift Valley to Sonachi lake, whose rich green color is due to the large amounts of algae in its alkaline waters. Completely surrounded by lush forest and acacia trees, Sonachi gets its water from rainfall and underground streams and is host to small groups of migrating lesser flamingos. Distance: 7.5 miles / Difficulty: Moderate / Duration: 5hrs.

lunch

Lunch at the campsite is included.

dinner

Dinner at the campsite is included.

Bicycle Safari in Hell's Gate National Park (optional)

1 Hour

Grab your bikes and join your Guide for an 11-mile ride through Hell's Gate. You'll cycle through the varied terrain that was the inspiration for the animated film The Lion King and its iconic Pride Rock. There are no predators in the park, so you can safely ride alongside zebras, gazelles, buffaloes and more.

Camping at Lake Naivasha

Night 2/2

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Day 5

Info

You’ll set off this morning for the southwest and your ultimate destination, the Maasai Mara. Along the way, you'll stop in the Loita Hills, the traditional home of the Maasai tribe. After visiting and learning from the local villagers, you'll continue to your campsite for the night, with a spectacular wildlife safari en route.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campsite is included.

Loita Hills Maasai Experience

1 Hour

Known worldwide as the "lion hunters," modern Maasai live side-by-side with Kenya's wildlife as they maintain their age-old traditions. Stop at a Maasai village, experience their way of life and mix with the locals, where you're sure to make lasting memories.

lunch

Included lunch

Evening Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

2 Hours

You'll be taking the scenic route to your camp for the next couple of days, as you make your way over the vast plains of the Maasai Mara. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5, named for their difficulty to hunt: elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards and lions. There will also be herds of wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, impalas and more.

dinner

Dinner at the campsite is included.

Camping in the Maasai Mara

Night 1/2

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Day 6

Info

You’ll have a full day today to explore the majesty of the Maasai Mara, arguably, one of the most famous national reserves not only in Kenya but in all of Africa. Adjoining the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and home to the Great Migration of 2 million wildebeest, a game drive across the plains of the Mara is the quintessential African safari.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campsite is included.

Morning Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

3 Hours

You'll have all morning to explore the plains of the Maasai Mara, the crown jewel of East Africa and the quintessential safari reserve. Keep an eye out for elephants, rhinos, giraffes, buffaloes and more!

lunch

Lunch is included.

Afternoon Maasai Mara Big 5 Safari Game Drive

3 Hours

After lunch, you'll head back out on the plains for more wildlife sightings and exploration!

dinner

Dinner at the campsite is included.

Camping in the Maasai Mara

Night 2/2

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

This morning, after breakfast you’ll pack up camp and make your way back to Nairobi. Just north of Nairobi, you'll stop at the Kereita Forest for a final group adventure on the zip-lines.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campsite is included.

Zip-lining in the Kereita Forest

2 Hours

Fly through the forests of Kenya on this exhilarating two hour zip-line course, with great views of the surrounding area.

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included.

Farewell

Before we head off on our separate ways, Shannon and Zoe will gather you all together for the last night to share experiences and a few fun games!

Art workshop!

After a thrilling morning of zip lining through the forest, we have something much more calm and peaceful planned for the afternoon*. Shannon will guide you through step by step to create a beautiful elephant eye in coloured pencil. We will have all of our favourite materials available for you to use, so you don’t need to worry about having your own. The workshop will be suitable for all levels of experience; so if you are looking to work on techniques or having a go at something new, we will all be able to enjoy the time drawing this iconic animal together in the heart of Africa. *There will be some flexibility with the workshop as we will work closely with our guide to find the perfect time to get stuck into creating your very own drawing.

Boulevard Hotel Nairobi

Night 7/1

Overnight in Nairobi.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 8

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of NBO.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.