Join us for a stress-free travel experience! Our trip leaders will be with you every step of the way, from meeting you at the airport on arrival day to ensuring a safe transfer on departure day, and everything in between. We’ve got you covered! 

*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!

🌍 Embark on an unforgettable adventure that merges learning with wanderlust – welcome to the educators' expedition to Kenya! 🦓🌞 Ignite your passion for teaching as you traverse the majestic landscapes, from a safari in the iconic savannahs where lions roar to the vibrant markets where cultures converge. This isn't just a trip; it's a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons while savoring the thrill of exploration. Engage with local communities, immerse yourself in rich traditions, and gather anecdotes that will enliven your classrooms for years to come. Join us for an educational escapade that will inspire your teaching and leave you with memories as wild as the African plains. Get ready to write your own chapter of the safari story – Kenya is calling! 🌴Note** Itinerary Subject to Change**

Professional Development: You will visit a variety of schools, learning about their system, the importance of education in their culture and in addition, you will learn how a social organization is attempting to unify one of the most impoverished areas of the world.  A PD Certificate for 20 hours of Professional Development will be given to each participant. 

Terrain:  Mostly flat, but dusty

Be sure to visit  Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

Leaders:

Torrence Williams 

Steve Sherman

Check-in Day

Arrival in Nairobi: Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our tour leaders who will assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Free Day to Acclimate: Take the day to rest and acclimate to the new environment. Explore the hotel amenities or take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood.

Welcome Reception in the Evening: Join us for a welcome reception where you’ll meet your fellow educators and tour leaders. Enjoy a brief orientation, refreshments, and an overview of the exciting journey ahead.

Overnight in Nairobi at Sarova PanAfric Hotel

Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure! Fill in this form on the website.

OR  Choose your own activity.  Click Here!

Today we will visit a school together and in the afternoon, you will have the option to do a city tour. 

Group Activity:

1. Nova School Visit: Begin your visit with a comprehensive tour of the Nova Pioneer campus. Nova Pioneer is known for its modern facilities and innovative approach to education, which combines the Kenyan National Curriculum with the Cambridge Curriculum. Spend time observing various classes in session. Nova Pioneer emphasizes student-centered learning, where teachers guide students to discover solutions themselves rather than providing direct answers. Learn about Nova Pioneer’s focus on holistic education, which includes not only academic excellence but also the development of social, emotional, and physical well-being. The school places a strong emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education and leadership skills.

Educational Takeaways: Observe the infrastructure and resources available, such as science labs, libraries, and technology centers. This can provide insights into how physical environments can enhance learning experiences. Note the teaching methods and classroom management techniques used. This can inspire new strategies for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in your own students. Understand the importance of a well-rounded education that prepares students for the future. This can lead to discussions on how to incorporate holistic education principles into your own teaching, such as through extracurricular activities, leadership programs, and wellness initiatives.

Discussions with Teachers and Administrators: Engage in discussions with Nova Pioneer teachers and administrators about their innovative teaching methods and holistic education approach. Topics may include the integration of technology in the classroom, project-based learning, and the development of 21st-century skills.

Educational Takeaway: Share best practices and learn about the challenges and successes of implementing new educational strategies. This exchange can provide valuable ideas for enhancing your own teaching practices and curriculum design.

Afternoon Activities: (after about 2pm)

Free Time for Optional Activities (Additional Cost)

• City Tour with Market: Explore Nairobi’s vibrant city life with a guided tour that includes visits to key landmarks such as the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, the National Archives, and the bustling Maasai Market, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight in Nairobi at Sarova PanAfric Hotel

(3 or 4  Star Hotel TBD)

Today we will engage with educators and visit schools together. 

Group Activities: 

1. Cheery School Visit

Cheery School, located in the heart of the Kibera slum in Nairobi, provides education and support to children from vulnerable families. This visit offers a unique opportunity to engage with local educators and students, gaining insights into the challenges and opportunities of education in one of Africa’s largest informal settlements. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from the students and staff. The visit begins with an introduction to the school, its history, and its mission to provide quality education to children in Kibera.

Classroom Observations: Spend time observing classes in session. This will give you a firsthand look at the teaching methods and learning environments in a resource-limited setting. Note the innovative strategies used by teachers to engage students despite the challenges.

Engagement with Educators: Engage in discussions with the teachers at Cheery School. Learn about their experiences, the resources they have, and the innovative strategies they use to overcome challenges. Share your own experiences and best practices, fostering a mutual exchange of knowledge.

Educational Takeaways:
Understanding Urban Education: Gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in urban education within informal settlements. This knowledge can be used to develop empathy and awareness among your students about global educational disparities.

2. Project Elimu (After school program) 

Begin with an introduction to Project Elimu, its mission, and the range of programs it offers. Learn about the impact of the afterschool program on the children and the community.Project Elimu is a community-driven non-profit organization that provides afterschool arts and sports education, as well as a safe space for young people in Kibera. The program focuses on playful learning and aims to address the various challenges faced by children in the community.

Program Observations: Observe the afterschool program in action. This could include activities such as ballet dancing, painting, playing musical instruments, and sports like football and skateboarding. Note the engagement and enthusiasm of the children participating in these activities.

Discussions with Program Leaders: Engage in discussions with the leaders of Project Elimu. Learn about the challenges they face, the successes they’ve achieved, and the strategies they use to keep the program running. Share your own experiences and insights on afterschool education and community engagement.

Educational Takeaways:

Holistic Education: Gain insights into the importance of holistic education that includes arts, sports, and emotional learning. This can be integrated into your own teaching practice to provide a more well-rounded education for your students.

Community Engagement: Learn about the role of community engagement in supporting educational initiatives. Discuss ways to involve your own community in supporting afterschool programs and other educational activities.

Innovative Program Design: Understand the design and implementation of innovative afterschool programs. Use this knowledge to develop or enhance afterschool initiatives in your own school or community.

These expanded activities ensure that educators not only enjoy a memorable visit to Cheery School and Project Elimu but also gain valuable insights and resources to enrich their teaching and inspire their students. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to add or adjust!

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight in Nairobi at Sarova PanAfric Hotel

Today we will explore some amazing attractions in Nairobi together!

Group Activities:

Giraffe Center: Learn about the specific conservation strategies employed to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe. This includes habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and breeding programs.

• Educational Takeaway: Educators can discuss the importance of biodiversity and the role of conservation programs in protecting endangered species. This can be integrated into lessons on ecology, environmental science, and the impact of human activities on wildlife.

Elephant Orphanage (David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust)

• Rescue and Rehabilitation: Understand the process of rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants, including the challenges faced by conservationists such as poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
  • Educational Takeaway: Educators can highlight the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and the ethical considerations involved. This can lead to discussions on conservation ethics, the impact of poaching, and the role of sanctuaries in wildlife protection.
• Feeding and Mud-Bath Sessions: Witnessing the feeding and mud-bath sessions offers insights into the daily care and social behaviors of elephants.
  • Educational Takeaway: Use this experience to create engaging lessons on elephant behavior, social structures, and the importance of family units in animal societies. Encourage students to research and present on different aspects of elephant life and conservation.

Safari Walk (Nairobi Safari Walk)

• Diverse Wildlife: The Nairobi Safari Walk showcases a variety of Kenyan wildlife in a natural setting, providing an overview of the country’s rich biodiversity.
  • Educational Takeaway: Educators can use this experience to teach about the different ecosystems in Kenya and the species that inhabit them. This can be integrated into geography and biology lessons, focusing on the diversity of life and the importance of each species in the ecosystem.
• Conservation Education: The elevated boardwalk and informative displays offer a comprehensive understanding of conservation efforts and the challenges faced by wildlife in Kenya.
  • Educational Takeaway: Discuss the role of education in conservation and how awareness can lead to positive environmental actions. Encourage students to develop their own conservation projects or campaigns to raise awareness about local or global wildlife issues.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight in Nairobi at Sarova PanAfric Hotel

 Today we head to Maasai Mara! 

Morning Flight to Maasai Mara: Depart Nairobi and fly to the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is situated in south-west Kenya and is one of Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Reserves. Together with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania it forms Africa’s most diverse, incredible and most spectacular eco-systems and possibly the world’s top safari big game viewing eco-system.

Afternoon Free Time: Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy some free time to relax and take in the stunning surroundings. You may choose to do an optional game drive. 

Included activity- Please also sign up in WETRAVEL under add-ons

• Afternoon Game Drive: For those interested, embark on an optional afternoon game drive to start exploring the rich wildlife of the Maasai Mara.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Maasai Mara at the Mara Jambo Safari Lodge

Spend an unforgettable day on a game drive in the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves. This immersive experience offers educators a unique opportunity to witness the incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), and to learn about the complex ecosystem from experienced guides.

Breakfast & Morning Safari

• Early Start: Begin your adventure early in the morning when the animals are most active. The cool morning air and soft light provide perfect conditions for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Big Five Sightings: Your experienced guides will take you to prime locations for spotting the Big Five. Learn about the behaviors, habitats, and conservation status of these iconic animals. For example, observe the social structure of elephant herds, the stealthy hunting techniques of lions, and the elusive nature of leopards.
• Bird Watching: The Maasai Mara is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 450 species of birds. Look out for colorful species such as the lilac-breasted roller, African fish eagle, and secretary bird. Your guides will share fascinating insights into the birdlife of the region.

Midday Break:

• Picnic Lunch in the Bush: Around midday, take a break for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within the reserve. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. This is a perfect time to relax, reflect on the morning’s sightings, and ask your guides any questions you may have about the ecosystem.

Afternoon Safari:

• Predator and Prey Interactions: Continue your safari adventure in the afternoon, focusing on predator and prey interactions. Witness the drama of the savannah as predators like cheetahs and lions hunt for their next meal. Learn about the strategies and adaptations that both predators and prey use to survive.
• Great Migration (Seasonal): If your visit coincides with the Great Migration, you’ll have the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular events. Millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing, often crossing the Mara River where crocodiles lie in wait. This natural phenomenon offers incredible insights into animal behavior and the challenges of survival.
• Ecosystem Education: Throughout the day, your guides will provide in-depth information about the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Learn about the interconnectedness of the flora and fauna, the role of keystone species, and the impact of human activities on the environment. This knowledge can be invaluable for educators looking to bring real-world examples into their teaching.

Evening Return & Dinner included

• Sunset Views: As the day draws to a close, enjoy the breathtaking views of the African sunset over the savannah. The golden light creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
• Reflection and Discussion: Return to your lodge in the evening, where you can share your experiences and reflections with fellow educators. Discuss the day’s highlights, the importance of wildlife conservation, and how you can incorporate these lessons into your classroom.

OPTIONAL HOT AIR BALLON RIDE- (Additional COST)

Educational Takeaways:

• Wildlife Conservation: Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect endangered species. This can inspire classroom discussions on conservation strategies and the role of education in promoting environmental stewardship.
• Ecosystem Dynamics: Learn about the complex dynamics of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, including predator-prey relationships, migration patterns, and the impact of climate change. Use this knowledge to enhance lessons on ecology, biology, and environmental science.
• Cultural Insights: Interact with Maasai guides and learn about their traditional knowledge and practices related to wildlife and land management. This cultural exchange can provide valuable perspectives on sustainable living and the integration of indigenous knowledge into modern conservation efforts.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Maasai Mara at the Mara Jambo Safari Lodge(3 or 4  Star Accommodations TBD)

Visiting Losho School offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local community in the Maasai Mara region. This visit will provide insights into the educational landscape of rural Kenya, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities faced by students and educators.

Group Activities: 

Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from the students and staff of Losho School. The visit begins with a brief introduction to the school, its history, and its mission.

Classroom Observations: Spend time observing classes in session. This will give you a firsthand look at the teaching methods and learning environments in rural Kenya. Note the differences and similarities compared to your own educational context.

Teacher Discussions: Engage in discussions with the teachers at Losho School. Learn about their experiences, the resources they have, and the innovative strategies they use to overcome challenges. Share your own experiences and best practices, fostering a mutual exchange of knowledge.

Cultural Performances: Enjoy cultural performances by the students, such as traditional Maasai songs, dances, and storytelling. These performances provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.

Community Involvement: Meet with community leaders and parents to understand the broader context of education in the Maasai Mara. Discuss the role of the community in supporting the school and the importance of education for the future of the region.

Educational Takeaways:

Understanding Rural Education: Gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in rural education. This knowledge can be used to develop empathy and awareness among your students about global educational disparities.

Cultural Appreciation: Foster a greater appreciation for cultural diversity and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Share these insights with your students to promote global awareness and respect for different cultures.

*Drive back to Nairobi

Transfer to Hotel: Upon arrival in Nairobi, transfer to your hotel. Take some time to unwind and prepare for the next day’s activities.

Evening Activities:

Group Reflection: Gather with your fellow educators for a group reflection session. Share your thoughts and experiences from the Losho School visit. Discuss how you can incorporate what you’ve learned into your teaching practice.

Free Time: Enjoy some free time in the evening to explore Nairobi, dine at a local restaurant, or simply relax at the hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in Nairobi at Nairobi Sarova PanAfric

(3 or 4  Star Hotel TBD)

Enjoy a free day in Nairobi! Enjoy some optional activities or relax at the hotel
                  

Optional Activity-

1. Boat Safari and Crescent Island  Tour  AND BIKING AT HELLS GATE 

INCLUDES EVERYTHING BELOW

Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha: Begin your adventure with a serene boat safari on Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, giraffes, and numerous bird species such as fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers.

Guided Walk on Crescent Island: After the boat safari, take a guided walk on Crescent Island, a private sanctuary where you can see wildlife up close. The island is home to zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and various antelope species, all roaming freely without predators.

• Educational Takeaway:  
  • Wildlife Observation: Observe and learn about the behavior and adaptations of different animal species. This can be integrated into lessons on animal behavior, adaptation, and the importance of wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Cultural Significance: Understand the cultural significance of the island and its role in local tourism. Discuss the impact of ecotourism on local communities and wildlife conservation

. Biking at Hell’s Gate National Park: Continue your adventure with a biking tour through Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering cliffs, gorges, and geothermal activity. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife such as buffaloes, zebras, and baboons.

• Educational Takeaway:  
  • Geology and Geography: Learn about the geological formations and geothermal activity in the park. This can be used to teach students about plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and the formation of the Great Rift Valley.
  • Physical Education and Wellness: Highlight the benefits of physical activity and outdoor adventures. Encourage students to engage in physical fitness and appreciate the mental health benefits of spending time in nature.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight in Nairobi at Nairobi Sarova PanAfric

Free Day in Nairobi! Enjoy optional activities or relax at the hotel.

Enjoy a summit dinner show with the group at Safari Park

Optional Activities (Additional Cost)

Nairobi National museum
Nairobi National Park Game Drive

Karen Blixon House  & Kazuri Beads and Potter

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner 

Overnight in Nairobi at Nairobi Sarova PanAfric

Departure Day


Optional side trip: (if flight time allows)

Karen Blixon House  & Kazuri Beads and Potter

 (3- 4 hour trip) - Located in what was then British East Africa, the bungalow-style house which is now the Karen Blixen Museum was built in 1912 by the Swedish engineer Åke Sjögren,[2] The house and its attached property were bought in 1917 by Karen Blixen and her husband, Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke with the intention of operating a coffee plantation. After the Blixens separated in 1921, Karen Blixen continued to live at the house and run the plantation until she returned to Denmark 1931. Her life here is chronicled in her most famous book, Out of Africa, as well as in her book Shadows of the Grass.

Free day to explore 

Kazuri Beads and Pottery  xplore a company that was started in 1975 by Lady Susan Wood who set up a fledging business making beads in a small shed in her back garden. She started by hiring two disadvantaged women, and quickly realized that there were many more women who were in need of jobs and so Kazuri Beads was created and began its long and successful journey as a help center for the needy women especially single mothers who had no other source of income. The beads are made with clay from the Mt Kenya area thus giving them authenticity to their craft. The factory acts as a social gathering with the hum of voices continuing throughout the day. See from start to finish the process of making jewelry and get a chance to make your own! End your visit shopping in their onsite store.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Extending your stay? 

Let us help you plan your next adventure. Fill in this form on the website.

OR  Choose your own activity.