November 3rd 2013 sees a total solar eclipse that will pass over equatorial Gabon in western Africa, the Congo, Uganda, Kenya, and finally Ethiopia.  Aardvark Safaris is offering a unique holiday opportunity to view the eclipse, with an astronomer, from Lake Turkana, Kenya - the place that cradled our very origins as a species.

Lake Turkana is an otherworldly spot, lying in a volcanic, almost lunar landscape in far northern Kenya. Named for the Turkana tribe of nomadic pastoralists that live along its shores, the lake and its surrounds remain as an artefact of another time. People here live as they have done for centuries, a fact attested to by the presence of some of the oldest discovered hominid fossils.  It is a perfect, almost surreal location from which to watch this rare astronomical event.

Prior to the eclipse at Lake Turkana guests will spend three nights at the luxurious and recently opened Segera Retreat, which sits in a private 20,000 hectare concession in the wilderness of the Laikipia Plateau. Day time activities at Segera revolve around wildlife viewing, interaction with the local community, enjoying the private art collection and relaxation, while all three nights will see evening lectures and star gazing courtesy of a private astronomer. Included in these discussions will be fascinating facts and explanations of the upcoming eclipse, with the astronomer joining guests for the excursion to Lake Turkana.  

Segera is nestled in the foothills of Mount Kenya, just 20km north of the equator and aside from excellent game viewing, guests will be able to enjoy the luxury spa, fully equipped gym, saltwater swimming pools, superb cuisine and fine African wines.

The eclipse itinerary includes three nights at Segera Retreat, continuing on to Lake Turkana after a late brunch on 3rd November. The private light aircraft flight to the lake crosses the northern rangelands of Kenya arriving in this extraordinary and stark landscape in good time to settle in before the eclipse.

Price is £4,100 which includes a three night stay at Segera from 31st October on a full board basis, private flight from Segera to Lake Turkana and to Nairobi post eclipse.

Further information Aardvark Safaris, www.aardvarksafaris.co.uk, mail@aardvarksafaris.com. Tel 01980 849169

Editors' note:  This short itinerary can be combined with other safari areas in Kenya, or the Kenyan cost, to create a longer, tailor made holiday.