Journey to East Africa - Sample Itinerary

With a national park nestled next to its bustling capital, Kenya is a truly unique destination offering unforgettable experiences. From its thriving business hubs to its iconic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, this East African gem has it all. Explore cutting-edge conservation efforts, immerse yourself in vibrant local cultures and discover the unparalleled beauty of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems.

* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for a full-time MBA group. All of our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme. All itineraries are subject to change.

Day 1:  Sat December 7 welcome to Kenya
by ISP Program Manager & faculty
orientation talk by ISP Program Manager & faculty

"orientation talk: by ISP Program Manager & faculty
ONE WEEK PRIOR TO DEPARTURE: Get familiar with the upcoming specifics of the program and how best to take advantage of the travel experience.
Before the program start, make sure you've done your research about the countries that you are about to visit, and get ready for an intense week packed with exciting company visits and cultural activities!"

Zoom
Kenya
Kenya

Kenya, a dynamic East African nation, thrives with a blend of economic growth, social diversity, rich culture, and diverse geography. Economically, it's one of Africa's emerging powerhouses, with a thriving agricultural sector, burgeoning tech industry, and a strategic position as a regional trade hub. Socially, Kenya's 50+ ethnic groups coexist harmoniously, contributing to a tapestry of languages, traditions, and vibrant artistry. Its geographical marvels include everything from the Great Rift Valley's dramatic landscapes to idyllic coastal shores along the Indian Ocean. This fusion of economic, social, cultural, and geographical diversity makes Kenya a captivating destination and a significant player on the African stage.

PLEASE NOTE THAT TAKING PHOTOS OF GOVERNMENTAL BUILDINGS IS NOT ALLOWED IN KENYA.

arrive in Nairobi
intercity transfers arrive in Nairobi
Own arrangements

meet ISP representative at the airport

own arrangements
transfer to the hotel, check-in
transportation transfer to the hotel, check-in
2x mini bus transfer
afternoon Nairobi National Park safari
optional cultural event Nairobi National Park safari

Located just 7km from Nairobi's city center, Nairobi National Park is the perfect place for an excursion from the Kenyan capital and one of the only places on earth where you can be on safari with skyscrapers as part of your backdrop; enjoy a 3-hour game drive through the wildlife capital of the world.

sts pay individually
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 2:  Sun December 8 discovering Nairobi
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in the hotel lobby, depart for visits
transportation meet in the hotel lobby, depart for visits

dress code: business casual, comfortable shoes

2x mini bus full day
morning introduction to business in Kenya
presentation introduction to business in Kenya American Chamber of Commerce, Kenya

Kenya, one of East Africa’s largest economies, is home to a growing business landscape with key sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and the tech-driven "Silicon Savannah." Join us as we learn about this dynamic environment that fosters trade between the United States and Kenya. You will gain insights into market entry, international trade policies, and challenges like regulatory hurdles and infrastructure development. By the end, you'll understand how to build successful global partnerships in a fast-evolving economy.

management presentation, discussion
meeting space
group lunch
meals group lunch
restaurant
afternoon Nairobi storytelling tour with former street kids
cultural event Nairobi storytelling tour with former street kids

Discover a different side to Nairobi with this extraordinary guided tour. After meeting your guides, who are former street children brought up in the heart of the city, you will embark on a 3-hour guided walking tour as together you explore the Downtown region in the city's center. As you walk, get real insights into the lives of local youth and street children, as your guides take you through their experience in their former 'home'. Share their captivating life stories connected to the places you visit. Hear how they ended up in the streets and learn how they survived as they teach you some of their street skills.

bus/walk
meet in hotel lobby, depart for dinner
transportation meet in hotel lobby, depart for dinner
2x mini bus transfer
evening welcome dinner at historic coffee farm
meals welcome dinner at historic coffee farm

Join us for a welcome dinner at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, a charming venue rich in Kenya’s coffee heritage. Located on the historic grounds of Karen Blixen’s former coffee farm, this site connects you to the legacy of the renowned author of "Out of Africa." Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a place that symbolizes Kenya's long-standing coffee culture, tracing its roots back to the late 19th century and its vital role in the nation’s agriculture.

Karen Blixen Coffee Garden
Day 3:  Mon December 9 fintech insights and industrial innovations
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
transportation meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
2x mini bus full day
morning financing the future: innovative business models in fintech
academic immersion financing the future: innovative business models in fintech M-Kopa

Kenya is making significant investments into fostering its own regional hub for technology and innovation. Despite this being a long-term plan, local innovators and entrepreneurs are already creating international success stories. Visit a shining example of Kenyan technological innovation that has grown rapidly across the continent whilst still understanding and focusing on solving local challenges.

management presentation, case study, discussion, tour of facilities
networking group lunch with speakers
meals networking group lunch with speakers
restaurant
afternoon driving success: business strategies in the automotive industry
academic immersion driving success: business strategies in the automotive industry Isuzu East Africa Limited

Join us for an insightful session with one of East Africa’s leading automotive manufacturing companies, renowned for its impact on regional transportation. This organization specializes in producing commercial vehicles, offering a deep dive into their strategies for market penetration, product innovation, and supply chain management. You’ll explore topics like competitive positioning, sustainability practices, and how they navigate economic challenges.

management presentation, case study, discussion, tour of facilities
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
Day 4:  Tue December 10 the journey from land to sea
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
check-out, load luggage on the bus, transfer to giraffe center
transportation check-out, load luggage on the bus, transfer to giraffe center
2x mini bus half day
morning The Giraffe Center
cultural event The Giraffe Center

Get up close and personal with the endangered Rothschild giraffe at The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Giraffe Centre. Learn more about conservation efforts to preserve the endangered species and take a closer look on their raised platforms among the giraffes.

group lunch
meals group lunch
restaurant
continue transfer to the train station
transportation continue transfer to the train station
2x mini-bus transfer
transfer to Mombasa (approx. 5 hrs)
intercity transfers transfer to Mombasa (approx. 5 hrs)
train
arrive Mombasa, transfer to the hotel, check-in
transportation arrive Mombasa, transfer to the hotel, check-in
2x mini bus transfer
group dinner in the hotel
meals group dinner in the hotel
included in the accommodation
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure

ISPer's recommendation: Diani Beach and Nyali Beach
Mombasa's beautiful beaches like Diani Beach and Nyali Beach offer a relaxing experience with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. You can also find beachside bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and music.

Day 5:  Wed December 11 discovering Mombasa
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
transportation meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
2x mini bus full day
morning biodiversity and business: pathways to successful eco-tourism
academic immersion biodiversity and business: pathways to successful eco-tourism The Haller Foundation Sonal Singh Operations Manager

Visit Nguuni Sanctuary to discover the project led by the Haller foundation, one of the oldest and largest NGOs in Kenya. This sanctuary is a prime example of how responsible tourism and wildlife rehabilitation can coexist harmoniously with the natural world, nestled within the coastal beauty of Kenya. Join us as we delve into eco-tourism and environmental conservation, exploring topics like sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and social entrepreneurship. By the end of your visit, you will gain valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of sustainability and how grassroots initiatives drive meaningful change.

management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
taste of Swahili: group lunch
meals taste of Swahili: group lunch

Step into a world of vibrant flavors and rich traditions as you embark on a culinary journey through Mombasa. Tasting Swahili food in this coastal paradise is like savoring a symphony of spices and history. With each bite, you'll uncover the secrets of the Swahili kitchen, where influences from Arabia, India, and Africa fuse together in a delightful dance of taste and texture.

restaurant
afternoon Mombasa unveiled: a guided journey through Swahili culture
cultural event Mombasa unveiled: a guided journey through Swahili culture

Join us on an unforgettable journey to explore the heart and soul of Mombasa, Kenya’s charming coastal gem. This guided tour offers an immersive experience that dives deep into Swahili culture. Wander through the historic streets of Mombasa's Old Town, where history feels alive, discover the city’s rich maritime heritage and its role in the spice trade, and savor the unique flavors of Swahili cuisine.

bus/walk
rest of the day at leisure
rest of the day at leisure
group dinner in the hotel
meals group dinner in the hotel
included in the accommodation
Day 6:  Thu December 12 building global impact and talent
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
transportation meet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visit
2x mini bus full day
morning nurturing talent: resources and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs
networking event nurturing talent: resources and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs Swahilipot Hub

Gain valuable insights into Mombasa's startup ecosystem, uncovering the factors that drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. Understand the challenges and opportunities unique to this coastal city. Immerse yourself in the power of networking within the tech and startup world. Understand the significance of collaborative relationships and partnerships in fostering growth and innovation.

management presentation, discussion, roundtable discussions
group lunch
meals group lunch
restaurant
afternoon Mombasa - the biggest port in East Africa
visit Mombasa - the biggest port in East Africa Kenya Ports Authority (Port of Mombasa)

Mombasa is the main hub of Eastern Africa, and the port plays a major role in the development not only of the whole city, but of the whole region. Visit the main port's organization, Kenya Ports Authority, and discuss the challenges of African trade and specifics of local supply chains.

management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
meet in the hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner
transportation meet in the hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner
2x mini bus transfer
farewell feast overlooking a stunning view
meals farewell feast overlooking a stunning view

As the trip comes to an end, let's enjoy a heart-warming dinner as we look back on the program and everything we have learned and discovered. Share stories, pictures, and final reflections on the overall inspiring experience!

Tamarind restaurant
Day 7:  Fri December 13 depart Kenya
breakfast
breakfast
hotel
check out, transfer to the airport
transportation check out, transfer to the airport
2x mini bus full day
depart Kenya
intercity transfers depart Kenya
Own arrangements
own arrangements