WEEKEND ESCAPES 62 Take advantage of KQ's fantastic network of affordable flights across Kenya and plan a weekend break to get away from it all. Kenya has something for everyone, whatever their interest. By Lizzie Williams getaways y1 fishing on Lake Victoria Spend a couple of days on Lake Victoria to try your hand at fishing for the mighty Nile perch. Both Mfangano Island Lodge and Rusinga Island Lodge are in sublime locations, with fleets of tiny dugout canoes equipped with lateen sails gracefully cruising past in the early morning, and the sun sinking dramatically over the lake in the early evening. WHY? One of Africa's largest freshwater fish, Nile perch can reach up to 170kg in weight and 1.6m in length. Hauling one out of the water is a thrilling experience! And don't forget to try your luck fishing for tilapia from the end of the lodge jetties at sunset. WHere? Mfangano Island Lodge ( www. governorscamp. com) lies in a secluded bay and has just six luxurious rooms and a swimming pool. Rusinga Island Lodge ( www. rusinga. com) has seven stone and thatch cottages, a swimming pool and spa. Each has fully equipped fishing boats and instructors. fly kq to kisumu Daily 50- minute flights between Nairobi and Kisumu. Lodges are reached by private air charter or road/ boat transfers. Mfangano Island lies 8km offshore, while Rusinga is linked to the mainland by a causeway. there are several excellent dive sites within a 45- minute boat ride from the coast, ranging in depth from 10- 30m y2 Malindi and Watamu Marine Parks The marine parks at Malindi and Watamu have fringing coral reefs in brilliantly clear water, while turtles nest on the beaches. Water temperatures are a very comfortable 25- 30° C and the fish are a dazzling array of colours. A weekend on the coast provides the perfect opportunity to explore the Indian Ocean through a mask. WHy? The reefs are as close as 150m from shore and can be exposed at low tide, so are ideal for first- time snorkellers. There are several excellent dive sites within a 45- minute boat ride from the coast ranging in depth from 10- 30m. Divers should look out for barracuda, moray, whale shark, lion fish and parrotfish. If lucky, you may even spot dolphins and leatherback turtles. WHere? All the resorts in Malindi and Watamu can arrange snorkelling trips. Those who prefer not to get wet can go out to the reefs in glass-bottomed boats. Blue- Fin Diving ( www. bluefindiving. co) operates from 21 resorts in Malindi and Watamu. fly kq to Malindi Daily flights from Nairobi. Leatherback turtle msafiri

msafi ri 63 Y3 NAIROBI SAFARI With a national park right on its doorstep, Nairobi is the perfect launchpad for some close encounters with wildlife. In a weekend city break you can visit a number of worthwhile wildlife organisations and also spend half a day game viewing in Nairobi National Park. This break is ideal for families with young children who do not have the time ( or the budget) for a longer safari. WHY? There are few other places to get so close to animals in Kenya and you're guaranteed fantastic photo opportunities. Your visit will Eyeball a giraffe at the Langata Giraffe ( www. sheldrickwildlifetrust. org), stroke a cheetah cub at the Nairobi National Park Animal Orphanage ( www. kws. org), and take a stroll Daily fl ights link Nairobi with also support some unique wildlife conservation initiatives. WHERE? Centre ( www. giraffecenter. org), watch baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust along the elevated boardwalk to see a variety of animals at the Safari Walk ( www. kws. org). Then see wildlife in its natural habitat with the city as a backdrop in the Nairobi National Park. FLY KQ TO NAIROBI Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu and Kisumu as well as regional and international destinations.