Green volcanic hills between Amboseli and Tsavo, lava tubes underneath and cloud forest on top. Riding and walking are permitted here, which they are not in the parks either side, and you will pass one other vehicle in a day.

The Jade Sea, two days north of anywhere, with the world's largest desert lake, crocodile-covered Central Island, and a Turkana, Rendille and El Molo culture that has almost nothing to do with the Kenya of the brochures.

The last Kenyan fragment of the Guineo-Congolian rainforest that once ran to the Atlantic. Blue monkeys, three hundred bird species, and a canopy that makes the savanna feel like another country entirely.

Elephant, buffalo and big cats in a park that rewards time rather than a hurried circuit. Meru belongs on the journey when you want another morning in the bush, with room to follow a sighting instead of watching the clock.

Coral-stone lanes, carved doors and dhows moving between islands. Walk the old town while the streets are cool, then let the water set the pace. This is a coast for wandering, sailing and leaving the afternoon unclaimed.

A small wetland near Kitale where the search is for sitatunga rather than lions. Forest, reeds and the elusive De Brazza’s monkey reward a patient eye. Bring binoculars and leave space for the things you only notice when you stop.

Coastal forest above the beach, with elephants, sable antelope and the falling water at Sheldrick Falls. A change of scene from Diani: green shade, hilltop views and a reason to spend a day away from the sand.

Fresh water in the dry northern Rift, with fish eagles overhead and hippos in the shallows. Take a boat out with a local guide, watch the shoreline wake up, and keep the rest of the day deliberately light.

Rhino country on the Laikipia plains, where a game drive opens a window onto the work of conservation. Pair wildlife viewing with the story of the rescued chimpanzees at Sweetwaters, and give this stop more than a passing afternoon.