Aardvark Safaris invites active travelers and venturesome multigenerational families to “run wild” at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya for the 17th annual Safaricom Marathon on June 25. The California-based tour operator, which specializes in planning customized safaris throughout southern and eastern Africa, has created a package centered around the marathon with the option for guests to extend their trip to go on a safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve, gorilla track in nearby Rwanda, or visit wildlife conservancies. This major sporting event is organized by Tusk, a wildlife conservation charity, in partnership with Aardvark Safaris and sponsors Safaricom, drawing over 1,200 runners from more than 200 countries each year. During the event, amateur and professional runners can race or walk across the Kenyan savannah in three categories—a full marathon, a half marathon or a children’s 5K race—by buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos while helping raise awareness and funds for Africa’s endangered species.
Upon arrival on June 22, guests receive a private transfer to the elegant House of Waine, where they’ll spend one night in a double/twin room. The property features 11 individually designed guestrooms, a pool, two bars and several indoor and outdoor dining venues—a breakfast verandah, a dining room and patio, a pool pavilion, a living room, and gardens—where guests can enjoy their complimentary breakfast and dinner. The next day, guests move on to Maridadi Camp, where they’ll spend three nights in a double or twin tent with full board, including all meals, a welcome drink, and two 1-liter bottles of water per day, all while getting ready for the big race. While at the Maridadi Camp, there is the option to participate in a training run with an armed guard, visit one of the projects supported by the marathon such as a school or water project, or do an additional game drive to see the Big 5, as well other mammal species. Before departure, Aardvark Safaris takes guests behind the scenes at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to witness its groundbreaking work with black and white rhino, elephant, and anti-poaching initiatives. For more information, call (858) 523-9000 or visit aardvarksafaris.com/safaricom-marathon.
