Thinking about Kenya conjures up scenes of a colonial safari camp. The camps are set in open grassland dotted with massive herds of wildebeest and zebra, and ravenous lions, leopards and cheetahs waiting to pounce. This is the Masai Mara, undoubtedly the ultimate game sanctuary in Africa.

Tonight, in the glow of the bonfire, reflect on the sightings of the day, while enjoying the spirited dance of Masai warriors in their distinctive red shukas (cloaks).

However, one of the most memorable wildlife experiences is to witness more than a million herbivores crossing the Mara River from the dry planes of the Serengeti, in their ancient search for green pastures. What an experience! See the water churning as thousands of intrepid animals take the plunge, with huge crocodiles attacking from all sides - truly an unfair contest. Timing your trip to coincide with the river crossing is tricky because unpredictable annual rains determine the animals' itinerary.

The masses of wildlife remain in the Masai Mara between July and September after which the circular trek south into the Serengeti begins. Since thousands upon thousands of wildlife species do not join the journey south, there is still scope for breathtaking wildlife sightings, especially from a hot air balloon, gliding like a silent spectre over the vast plains.