Elite Traveler March-April 2018

elite traveler NOV/DEC 2017 93

The lap of luxury KENYA, TANZANIA, RWANDA Styled after the epic safaris taken by the aristocracy at the beginning of the 20th century, but with all of the conveniences and luxury of the 21st, Micato’s Grand Safari takes you through five preserves in 15 days, allowing enough time to experience each without feeling rushed. Stays in Amboseli, the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti, LewaWildlife Conservancy and the Ngorongoro Crater provide opportunities to see a huge variety of wildlife. Experience game drives galore; hot-air balloon rides across the plains; excursions to the Mara River, home to crocodiles and hippos; and visits with the Maasai. At the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, meanwhile, amenities include an infinity pool with a remarkable up-close view of an elephant watering hole. LakeManyara is also a magical sight: thousands of pink flamingos mill about the lake while black-and-white zebras graze on the banks. Other local residents include rhinos, hippos, giraffes, elephants and tree-climbing lions. We suggest adding on a four-day trip to Rwanda to track mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. Hiking through a lush forest brings you closer to the peaceful primates than you could ever imagine. The 10 gorilla families who live in the park are familiar with human encounters and will walk within yards of your small group (only eight people are allowed to visit each day). From$23,350 per person for 15 days, based on double occupancy with the option tomake the trip private. Gorilla addition from$5,350 per person, based on double occupancy. Contact Fran Doherty, general manager, fdoherty@micato.com, +1 212 340 7118, micato.com