38 Under the Stars Away from the city gaze, there’s an entire universe out there. The most potent reminder is when you find yourself in the African wonderland with the night sky and a glittering of stars to act as your blanket. Miriam Carow, Head of Africa, provides our most inspiring experiences as you rest your head under the stars in Africa. Have you ever been fly camping in the wilderness? Heading from Sabuk Lodge, you can venture through the African bush with your expert and indigenous Samburu and Turkana guides. Just as explorers would travel centuries ago, you will be accompanied by a train of camels to carry your belongings and trunks of supplies on this four-hour trek. If your feet get weary, you can stop for chilled watermelon, or the camels can carry you. From time to time, the camel handlers may begin singing or chanting their traditional songs, which you can learn as you travel. The scenery of Laikipia is dramatic, and incredibly peaceful, with only the chirp and rustle of nature, and the bells of the camels as your soundtrack. There’s plenty of opportunities to see for yourself the wildlife that call Laikipia their home – from elephants and zebra to buffaloes and the occasional wild dog. Before dusk approaches and as the cicadas begin whirring, you will reach camp, complete with your own bedrolls, linen and toilets, lit by kerosene lamps. A traditional bucket shower is the perfect way to refresh yourself before you settle down for the night. Wake up to a mug of steaming hot tea around the campfire and a quick breakfast before venturing to other camps including one that is so remote, even vehicles cannot access it. By day, the camp’s cooks provide an absolute treat from their trunks, including picnic lunches of delicious salads, freshly baked breads and quiche, accompanied by cooling drinks. You can slumber in the heat of the day under a fig tree, before going fishing, rock climbing, or perhaps swimming in a nearby river. In the late afternoon, the local Samburu will bring their livestock down to the river for water. The starry treat of this three-night experience? Each tent has a mosquito netted ceiling, ensuring your bed is the perfect place to star gaze before you close your eyes. Best time to go: Mid June - early October and Late December - February RECOMMENDED ROUTE: 8 Days / 7 Nights Nairobi (1) - Laikipia - Sabuk (3) - Masai Mara (3) - Nairobi (0) Starting from USD 8,195 / person LAIKIPIA | Kenya Venture to Kanana Camp, in the heart of the Okavango Delta, where water is the lifeblood for the region’s wildlife and people. If the daytime magic of its incredible water channels is not enough of a treat, then experience an overnight adventure as you sleep in the cooling open air. On your own private deck, welcome in the sunset as it opens up to a feast of twinkling stars. Allow the bright moon to provide you with a natural lamp as you quietly observe the sights of the Okavango Delta. Accompanied by the soothing sounds of the freely roaming nocturnal wildlife, and the fragrant fresh air, this is an utterly breathtaking experience. Best time to go: April to October RECOMMENDED ROUTE: 7 Days / 6 Nights Victoria Falls Zimbabwe (2) - Chobe National Park (2) - Okavango Delta (2) – Maun (0) Starting from USD 7,770 / person. OKAVANGO DELTA | Botswana Africa