Familiarising Myself with Kenya: A Tour Operator’s Adventure
As a tour operator, keeping my knowledge fresh and up to date is essential, that is why I planned my Kenya Familiarising Trip. My recent trip to Kenya was not only an incredible adventure but also a vital opportunity to enhance my expertise. Here’s a glimpse into my journey through this beautiful country.
Nairobi: The Perfect Start
My adventure began with two nights in Nairobi at the charming House of Waine. This boutique hotel was a delightful introduction to Kenya’s hospitality. I visited Sheldrick’s Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre, both heartwarming and educational experiences that left a lasting impression.
During feeding time you really get close to of the orphanages, which is just heart warming. I was even able to pet our adopted baby elephant Kindani.
Ekorian’s Mugie Camp and Beyond
Next, I spent two nights at Ekorian’s Mugie Camp, a stunning location where I truly felt connected to nature. Great lion sightings and met the giraffe that they rescued. They tried to put it back in the wild, but when it was insured again it came back and never left.
During my stay, I did a site inspection at Governor’s Mugie House with a delicious lunch. The next day I made my way to the next accommodation and enjoyed a lovely lunch at Loisaba Tented Camp and visited Loisaba Starbeds and Lodo Springs, before I continued my way to Tumaren Camp with my driver. Each property offers unique and luxurious experiences under the stars.
Tumaren Camp and Mobile Safari: Immersed in Nature
One night at Tumaren Camp was a great experience and the owners are lovely people. The next morning, I left on a walking safari with Masai warriors and camels carrying our tents and shower. This walking safari was a return to the basics of safari life. These experiences highlighted the beauty of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and the thrill of exploring them on foot.
Elephant Bedroom Camp: Up Close with Wildlife
Spending two nights at Elephant Bedroom Camp was an absolute delight. The camp’s intimate setting allowed for close encounters with wildlife, creating unforgettable memories.
During my time here they had a drought an sadly the cattle of local farmers really struggled. Although not allowed, the farmers took them into the reserve, hoping for more food. Though unfortunately a lot of the cows died and predators had a feast.
Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages: A Birthday to Remember
During this Kenya familiarising trip, I celebrated my birthday at Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages and it was beyond special. The team surprised me with a bush lunch, making the day truly unforgettable. Two nights here provided a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. The best place for black and white rhino sightings and seeing the last Northern White Rhinos. Sadly, they will become extinct, as these are the last two females.
Baraka the black rhino lost his right eye defending his territory from another bull and the left later developed a crystallised cataract. This total loss of eyesight meant he could no longer survive in the wild. Lucky for him he recruited into Ol Pejeta’s workforce. He was moved into Morani’s 100-acre enclosure where he surprised everyone as it took only three weeks for him to fully adjust to his new home. Baraka is now fully settled at Morani Information Centre where he is doing a splendid job of being Ol Pejeta’s black-rhino ambassador to humans.
Governor’s Camp Collection: A new Safari Experience
I then moved on to main Governors Camp for two nights, with site inspections at Little Governors and Il Moran. Each camp had its own unique charm and added depth to my understanding of the Governor’s Camp collection.
Although it was the time of year for the big migration to roam the Masai Mare, they were no where to be seen… Yet! But yes, this is nature and wild life roaming free, not a zoo. Even with no wildebeest on the plains surrounding Governors, we had some fantastic sightings.
Lunch at Serian Camp and Inspections at Ngare Camp
My driver Jackson, who accompanied me along this stunning trip took me to Serian Camp for a delightful lunch, the manager couple is lovely, and they showed me around. Lunch was followed by a site inspection at Ngare Serian, another Serian property and both showcasing the luxurious side of Kenyan safaris.
Kicheche Mara Camp: A Safari Lover’s Haven
Next stop was Kicheche Mara Camp, I spent two nights exploring the stunning Northern Mara region. Between exhilarating game drives, I did a site inspections at Offbeat Mara Camp and Offbeat Ndoto, each offering unique insights into their distinct offerings. The game drives in the Northern Mara Conservancy were outstanding with lots of lion sightings.
Naibor Camp: Witnessing the Great Migration
Making our way from the Northern Mara Conservancy back in to the Mara National Park, we drove for about 2 hours seeing no glimpse of the big herd. Suddenly we past an airstrip and around the corner and there we were…. Surrounded by wildebeest. It was so breath taking and overwhelming.
Two nights at Naibor Camp were highlighted by a river crossing. It was breathtaking and thank God, without crocodiles. It was an emotional and impressive experience that brought tears to my eyes.
Sands at Nomad: Relaxation on the Coast
After all the travelling and site inspections, I ended my trip with four nights at The Sands at Nomad on the Kenyan coast. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey before flying back home.
The resident bush babies are the cutest things. In the evening you sit by the pool with a plate of fruit and they come down and you can feed them.
Reflections and Insights
This Kenya Familiarising trip was a comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and luxurious safari options. Each lodge and camp offered something unique, from the intimate settings of Elephant Bedroom Camp to the iconic experiences at Governor’s Camp. Witnessing a river crossing at Naibor Camp was a standout moment, showcasing the raw beauty of nature.
The insights gained from this journey will enhance my ability to craft personalised, unforgettable adventures for my clients. Kenya’s blend of wildlife, luxury, and authentic experiences makes it a top destination, and I’m excited to share these experiences with others.
Written by Daphne Wijnveldt
Top Travel Tip
“..Waking up at 5am, doesn’t get better than in the African Bush! Waking up to the sounds of the wildlife, the smell of fresh coffee and the knowledge that soon you will see amazing things during a morning game drive” – Daphne, Africa Safari Specialist
