Wildlife encounters, sweeping savannahs, and slow days in the heart of Kenya
Join us July 23–28, 2027 for a women's Reading Retreat through Kenya, where extraordinary wildlife, wide-open landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences come together with the slower, more intentional style of travel we love.
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Over six days, we'll experience three very different sides of Kenya, beginning in Nairobi before venturing into the legendary Masai Mara and finishing among the lakes, forests, and wildlife of Lake Nakuru National Park. Along the way, we'll search for elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, and more on guided game drives; visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre, spend time with a local Maasai community; and experience Kenya's landscapes from both the road and the water.​
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This retreat is about experiencing the magic of safari without packed days and exhaustion. Expect incredible days out exploring, but also time to settle into our lodges, read by the pool and reflect on the day's adventures.
What to Expect
Throughout our safari adventure, you'll be cared for with:
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Comfortable accommodations, each offering a unique perspective on Kenya's incredible landscapes
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Daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners while on safari
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Airport transfers to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi
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A professional English-speaking safari guide who will take care of every detail throughout our journey
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Incredible wildlife experiences including game drives in Nairobi National Park, the Masai Mara, and Lake Nakuru National Park, plus visits to the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre
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Optional experiences, including a sunrise hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara (at an additional cost)
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Time to read, relax between game drives, enjoy our safari lodges, and soak in the extraordinary beauty of Kenya at your own pace
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A book exchange during our first evening together to discover your next favorite read
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Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
Is This Retreat for You?
This trip is thoughtfully created for women travelers who want:
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To experience one of the world's most iconic safari destinations at a slower, more intentional pace
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To enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters while still making time to read, relax, and recharge
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To connect with a supportive group of book-loving women
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A hassle-free travel experience with expert planning, comfortable accommodations, and knowledgeable local guides
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Whether you're a solo traveler, coming with friends, or part of a book club, this retreat offers the perfect balance of adventure and quiet moments to enjoy at your own pace.
Pricing & Booking
​​Standard King Suite with private en-suite bathroom:
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Private: $7,250
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Shared: $3,875 per person ​​​
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Secure your spot with a 40% deposit.
Full balance due by May 23, 2027.
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Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
Scroll property images here!
Location & Accommodation
Kenya is one of the world's most iconic safari destinations, known for its sweeping savannahs, wildlife, culture, and landscapes that stretch from bustling Nairobi to the legendary Masai Mara and Great Rift Valley.
You'll stay in three thoughtfully selected accommodations throughout our journey, featuring:​
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Two nights at a modern Nairobi hotel
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Two nights at a beautiful safari camp in the Masai Mara with ensuite accommodations, a swimming pool, relaxation decks, and the African savannah just outside your door
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One night at a scenic lodge overlooking Lake Nakuru National Park, complete with terraces and an infinity pool overlooking the landscape
What's Included
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
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5 nights' accommodation at multiple Kenya properties
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Continental breakfasts
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5 chef-prepared or restaurant dinners
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Some lunches provided on day excursions, but not all
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Round-trip airport transportation (NBO airport)
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Welcome bag and book exchange
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Included optional group activities such as game drives in multiple national parks, plus visits to the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and a Maasai village
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from NBO Airport (meet at 3:00 pm for transfer)
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Check-in & welcome gift
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Book exchange
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Group dinner at local restaurant in Nairobi
Day 3
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Continental breakfast
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Drive to Masai Mara
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Afternoon safari/game drive
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Downtime to relax and read
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Group lunch and dinner at camp
Day 5
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Continental breakfast
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Visit local Masai village
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Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park
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Hippo boat tour
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Group lunch and dinner at inn
Day 2
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Continental breakfast
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Explore Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Center
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Group lunch at local restaurant in Nairobi
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Group dinner at hotel
Day 4
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Early morning hot air balloon ride (additional cost)
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Continental breakfast
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​Full-day safari/game drive
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Downtime to relax and read
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Group lunch and dinner at camp
Day 6
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Continental breakfast
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Depart for Nairobi at 9:00 am (5-hour drive)
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Arrival at NBO airport around 2 pm
Getting There
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya. Plan to arrive by 3:00 pm on Friday, July 23, 2027 to join the included airport transfer to our hotel. We'll spend our first two nights in Nairobi before beginning our safari adventure through the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru.
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If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transportation.
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Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors for warm days on safari
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A light sweater or jacket for cooler early-morning game drives and evenings, also in neutral colors
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Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes or boots
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A sun hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen
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A light rain jacket
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Small day bag or backpack for game drives and excursions
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Binoculars, if you have them, for wildlife viewing
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Camera if you plan to photograph the wildlife
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Swimsuit for relaxing at our safari camps and lodges
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A book you enjoyed to exchange during dinner on night 1!
A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
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And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Money & Spending
Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, lodges, and many businesses in Nairobi, but we recommend carrying local currency for tips, local markets, and other expenses along the way.
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ATMs are available at the airport and throughout Nairobi, so you can withdraw Kenyan Shillings after you arrive. Because we'll spend several days in national parks and more remote safari areas where access to ATMs may be limited, we recommend having both a credit card and enough cash for incidental expenses before leaving Nairobi.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included while we're on safari in the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru, along with unlimited drinking water during our game drives.
We'll enjoy many of our meals together at our safari camps and lodges, giving us plenty of time to unwind and reconnect after our days exploring. While in Nairobi, some lunches will be covered, but not all.
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If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can work with our accommodations and safari team to accommodate you.
For all of our accommodations, all rooms are King Suites available for either double or single occupancy.
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To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip, from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
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Please note that your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
July is one of the most popular times of year for safari in Kenya, falling within the country's cooler and drier season.
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In Nairobi, expect comfortable days and cooler mornings and evenings. Temperatures can feel surprisingly crisp after sunset, so layers are essential.
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The Masai Mara typically experiences mild daytime temperatures in July, with highs around 75–80°F (24–27°C) and significantly cooler mornings that often dip into the mid-50s°F (12–14°C), making layers essential for early morning game drives. particularly when you're riding in an open safari vehicle before the sun has fully risen. As the day warms up, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat will come in handy.
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At Lake Nakuru, elevation can also make mornings and evenings cooler than you might expect from an African safari.​​
Climate & What to Expect
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the property without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
