Holidaying with Jane McDonald

Kenya follows a singer on pre‑dawn safari drives in Laikipia, where she wakes to baby hippos, baboons, leopards and lions just metres away, delivering a gripping wildlife documentary that feels like a drama adventure for British TV. Each episode, and this episode of the series, is a standout programme highlight in the television guide, offering UK viewers a quick overview at a glance, fitting neatly into UK television’s 5 +1 programming and promising fresh entertainment for any British TV fan.

The new documentary series “Kenya – Safari at Dawn” follows a celebrated singer as she wakes before first light for sunrise game drives across the Laikipia plateau. Each episode captures the raw beauty of the Kenyan wilderness, from the mist‑shrouded savannah to the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro where she comes within metres of baby hippos, mischievous baboons, stealthy leopards and regal lions. Presented as a blend of travelogue and personal journey, the programme offers UK television audiences a rare glimpse of Africa’s most iconic wildlife through the eyes of a global music star. Viewers can anticipate a cinematic mix of close‑up wildlife footage, intimate moments of the singer’s reflections, and expert commentary from local conservationists. The early‑morning setting creates dramatic lighting that highlights the animals’ natural behaviours, while the singer’s candid narration adds a human touch to the adventure. Each episode runs for an hour, delivering a balanced rhythm of thrilling encounters and quiet contemplation, making it suitable for both documentary lovers and fans of celebrity‑driven entertainment. The series stands out for its on‑location authenticity – the crew travelled with a seasoned safari guide to ensure safe, ethical encounters. Highlights include a heart‑stopping scene where a lion cub playfully stalks the vehicle, a tender moment with a mother hippo and her calf, and a rare night‑time leopard sighting captured by infrared cameras. In addition, the programme weaves in cultural insights about the Maasai communities that share the land, providing a fuller picture of the region’s heritage and conservation challenges. British viewers have long been drawn to wildlife documentaries that combine spectacular scenery with compelling storytelling. “Kenya – Safari at Dawn” taps into that tradition while adding a fresh twist: the celebrity’s personal journey resonates with fans of music and drama alike. The series also aligns with the growing interest in sustainable travel and environmental stewardship, topics that feature prominently in UK media and public discourse. Its high‑production values and emotive narrative make it a standout addition to the British TV entertainment slate. The series forms part of the broadcaster’s 5 + 1 programming block, where five flagship documentaries are followed by a complementary behind‑the‑scenes special. This format gives UK viewers full details of the making‑of process, including interviews with the singer, the film crew and the wildlife experts. The extra episode enriches the in‑depth review of the series, offering a comprehensive guide for those who wish to explore the series beyond the main episodes and deepening the connection between the audience and the spectacular world of Laikipia.