20+ Awesome Things to Do in Kenya for an Unforgettable Trip
Kenya is a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage—making it one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world.
Whether you're dreaming of witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Diani, or exploring Nairobi's vibrant city life, Kenya has something for every kind of traveler. From thrilling safaris to unique cultural experiences, this guide covers 20+ incredible things to do in Kenya to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure.
Get ready to explore the best this incredible country has to offer!
A flagship property unique to Kenya is the Giraffe Manor, a boutique hotel in Nairobi set in stunning acres of private land and indigenous forest since the 1930s.
Open courtyards, lush gardens, and sunny terraces make the property a wonderful place to explore, but the main highlight is the herd of iconic safari mammals that reside on the property—giraffes!
Visitors can enjoy a breakfast tea and interact face-to-face with these endangered animals (and possibly get a kiss in the process).
Another not-to-be-missed encounter located in Nairobi National Park is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants and rhinos.
Most of the animals were rescued by the organization that has been operating since 1977. Visitors are given a chance to foster these adorable mammals before they get released into the wild.
You'll be amazed to see how these gentle giants are cared for and nurtured back to health. The trust allows visitors to watch the animals be fed and even bathed, making it a heartwarming experience that you'll cherish forever.
If you're in Kenya, a visit to the Masai Mara and Samburu is a must. These are two of the most popular and breathtaking safari destinations in the country.
The Masai Mara is famous for its exceptional population of big cats, game, and the annual migration of zebra, Thomson's gazelle, and wildebeest from the Serengeti every year from July to October, a migration so immense it's called the Great Migration.
The flood of animals filling the open savanna is breathtaking and include herds of elephants and giraffes, as well as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Meanwhile, Samburu National Reserve (in the North) is best for unspoiled views of safari wilderness and interacting with the friendly Samburu people. Both safaris offer an incredible opportunity to get up close with wildlife in their natural habitat.
Read next: The COOLEST Safari Lodge in Samburu, Kenya
If you're looking for a thrilling wildlife experience in Kenya, going rhino tracking on foot in Samburu is a must-do. This unique adventure allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
This is honestly perhaps the most exhilarating thing you can do in Kenya! It lets visitors in on an immersive experience with the rhinos while actively contributing to their protection. Herds of elephants can also be seen roaming freely in the vast landscape.
You'll be guided by professional trackers who are experts in their field. They will teach you how to track rhinos based on their footprints, droppings, and feeding habits.
One of Kenya's prime reserves where guests can get close-up views of the Big Five—buffalos, rhinos, leopards, lions, and elephants with a snowcapped Mount Kenya as a backdrop.
Plus, the conservancy is known to let guests meet rhinos as it houses the last Northern and Southern White Rhinos, as well as Baraka—a blind Black Rhino.
The conservancy is also known for its innovative conservation projects. It's the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees.
Running for Rangers—a wild footrace supporting Kenya's brave rhino rangers' event—is also a highlight of Ol Pejeta Conservancy.Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley is home to huge flocks of flamingos—one of the most photogenic birds in the African wildlife.
More than 450 kinds of bird species can be seen and photographed in the park—with scenic grasslands and woodlands as a backdrop.
It's also home to a rich diversity of other wildlife forms including pythons, leopards, waterbucks, and warthogs.
Mt. Kenya is Africa's second highest peak, behind Kilimanjaro, and reaches over 17,000 feet (3,800 meters).
Guided trips are available to visitors wanting to scale the continent's second-highest mountain via any of the three peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Point Lenana.
The trek is less crowded than Mount Kilimanjaro but challenging nonetheless. It usually takes 4-5 days to complete the trek with verdant forests and moorlands shrouding its slopes.
The best time to hike Mount Kenya is during the dry seasons, from January to February and from July to October. During these months, the weather is more predictable and the trails are less slippery.
Remember, this is a high-altitude hike, so take your time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Also, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. They know the mountain well and can ensure your safety during the hike.
An excursion to Lake Turkana's primordial sceneries is certainly one for the books. This massive saline lake, also known as the Jade Sea, is located in the Northern part of Kenya and is home to the world's largest population of Nile crocodiles.
Black sand beaches, three active volcanoes, and three crater lakes—with little to no change from millions of years ago—make up the region.
It's also home to the world's largest colony of Nile crocodiles and is where the earliest hominid fossils were found.
A UNESCO World Heritage site located at Kenya's northern coastline, Lamu Island's Old Town is the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa and features the best-preserved structures from 700 years ago.
Know more about the country's culture at the Lamu Museum and Lamu Fort and wander through the maze-like streets lined with traditional mangrove timber and stone houses.
Take a traditional dhow sailboat ride for a unique perspective of the island. The friendly locals are always ready to share stories of their heritage, making your visit to Lamu Island not just a sightseeing trip, but a rich cultural experience.
Remember to try some Swahili dishes while you are there. The cuisine, a blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, is as rich and diverse as the culture itself.
Named after its lava-carved landscape and intense geothermal activity within the Great Rift Valley, Hell's Gate National Park is one of the rare parks in Kenya that permits camping, and visitors can also explore the majestic sceneries on foot or via bicycle.
Cycling through the park is a popular activity among visitors, offering a chance to explore the vast savannah, dramatic cliffs, and towering volcanic columns at your own pace.
Don't forget to visit the park's famous hot springs and take a dip to relax your muscles after the ride. Also, make sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it with the stunning views of the park as your backdrop.
It also features obsidian caves, water-gouged gorges, and towering cliffs that can be scaled as well.
One of East Africa's largest coastal forests, Shimba Hills National Reserve is abundant in flora and fauna and has the highest concentration of African elephants.
It holds four campsites, and the scenic Sheldrick Falls and Mwaluganje Forest are shelter to the rich birdlife and other endemic species like the Sable antelope, Zanzibar Red Bishop, red-necked-Spur fowl, Croaking Cisticola, and fruit bats.
Tsavo East National Park's open and majestic bush landscape makes it easy to spot Kenya's iconic elephants covered in orange dust, as well as giraffes, zebras, and dik-diks during the summer months—even more majestic seen in aerial view via plane as it has stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
It's an experience that will give you a bird's eye view of the park, allowing you to spot elephants, lions, and even the elusive leopard from above.
For rock climbers, Yatta Plateau and Mudanda Rock are must-tries.
Wasini Island is Kenya's hidden paradise located at the southern coast and is also where Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park is located.
Visitors can swim and snorkel in its blue-green waters and even rent a traditional dhow to explore the surroundings. See a number of fascinating marine creatures including humpback dolphins, green sea turtles, and colorful seabirds.
Fly high up in the sky to a 360-degree view of Kenya's distinct landscapes and wildlife unfiltered.
The popular Masai Mara National Reserve is particularly majestic to look at during the break of dawn as it glides silently over the savannah grasslands and wilderness.
Visitors who book a ride between July and October are in for an outdoor treat to see the 'Great Migration' happen.
Tourists who are up for something offbeat and peculiar can take a trip to Kit Mikayi—a grand 'tor' (120 m high rock formation) located in western Kenya in the town of Kisumu.
This natural formation is deemed a shrine and has a religious and spiritual significance to the ethnic communities who live around it.
Visiting Kit Mikayi offers you an opportunity to learn about the Luo-Kakello Clan's customs and traditions. You can listen to fascinating folk tales narrated by the locals, and if you're lucky, you might even witness a traditional ceremony.
After you've arranged accommodation, taking a stroll through Nairobi's streets is a trip of discovery and an opportunity to learn about the city's rich history. Several historic buildings, national monuments, statues, and markets add to the stories and influences of the city's colonial past.
The McMillan Memorial Library, Kipande House, Jamia Mosque, and war memorial pillars are just few of the things that can be admired while strolling through the cityscape.
Along Kimathi Street, you'll find a statue of Field Marshall Dedan Kimathi as well as landmarks like the Hilton Hotel. A little distance away lies the Tom Mboya statue, and further along Moi Avenue, a reminder of a tragic event awaits you at the August 7th Memorial Park.
Joining a tour guide is one of the best ways to see Nairobi on foot. Your local guides will provide you with facts and stories about the city, as well as lead you to the most exciting sites and landmarks.
Read next: 20 Amazing Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya for an Unforgettable Trip
Shop at these cultural markets to know how locals do it!
The Maasai Market is famous for its beautiful handcrafted jewelry, beaded accessories, and traditional Maasai attire.
Here, you can find everything from colorful bracelets and necklaces to Maasai shukas, which are traditional blankets worn by the Maasai people. The market is also a great place to buy unique souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones back home.
Meanwhile, Kibuya Market is the place to be when shopping for clothing, metal pieces, footwear as well as fruits, coffee, and tea.
Take a break from land safaris and try it via boat this time on the gleaming waters of Lake Naivasha.
The safari's cool atmosphere makes for a relaxing and peaceful time in the open water where one can spot a myriad of colorful birds idling about including flamingos, saddle-billed storks, pink-backed pelicans, and kingfishers.
One can also spot African fish eagles nesting in the nearby acacia woodland.
Home to one of the biggest calderas in the world, Menengai Crater is located in the Great Rift Valley in Kenya and is a popular camping grounds for outdoor enthusiasts.
The crater is situated on the Rift Valley floor with its volcano forming about 200,000 years ago. Soak in the panoramic and sweeping views of the plunging cliffs and crater and enjoy sightings of more than 400 species of birds.
Kerio Valley is one of the landmark features of the Great Rift and there's no better sport to scale its beauty than paragliding.
There are a number of take-off points in the valley where one can enjoy a smooth launch and safe landing. This excursion covers more than 10 kilometers of aerial distance and scenic panoramic landscapes.
Kenya has 536 kilometers of coastline, and many of those kilometers are beautiful beaches. These golden and white sand beaches are dotted with luxury resorts and holiday homes.
Watamu is one of the most popular beach destinations in Kenya. The Swahili town on the north coast has five stunning beaches that are ideal for couples, families, and watersport enthusiasts. Some of the nicest beaches in Watamu are Turtle Bay Beach, Garoda Beach, and Jacaranda Bay.
There are more beautiful beaches along the Swahili coast besides Watamu. Mombasa beaches like Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach are among them, as are Diani beaches like Tiwi, Diani Beach, and Galu Kinondo Beach.
They're protected by coral reefs and Diani Beach is particularly known and loved for its water sports, including scuba diving opportunities.
Read more: What to Wear on a Safari – Practical Outfit Ideas for Women & Men
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Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
Dreaming of a Safari Honeymoon? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
An African safari honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway filled with adventure or a relaxing escape into nature, a safari honeymoon can be tailored to suit your interests and travel preferences. To help navigate the possibilities, we spoke with two leading travel experts who specialize in luxury African honeymoons: Deborah Calmeyer, CEO and Founder of ROAR Africa, and Alli Allen, a luxury travel advisor with Travel Edge. Both note a significant rise in honeymoon safari interest, as newlyweds increasingly seek out bucket-list experiences and meaningful travel. 'We have never seen as many requests for honeymoons in Africa,' says Calmeyer. 'It's not a surprise to me that honeymooners have realized that the African landscape provides the beauty, peace, and stillness that one wants to drop into after all the stressful wedding planning.' Allen adds that the honeymoon has become a catalyst for couples to 'take the ultimate trip,' embracing a blend of exploration, cultural immersion, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your African safari honeymoon. The best time for an African safari depends on the country you're visiting and what you hope to see. In general, the dry season is the most popular time for safaris because animals gather around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot. The Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move between the Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya, typically occurs from July to October. This period is considered an excellent time for wildlife viewing as predators follow the herds, providing incredible opportunities to witness dramatic scenes of nature. The dry season, which lasts from May to October, offers the best game viewing opportunities. During this time, animals congregate near rivers and waterholes due to the lack of widespread water sources, making them easier to spot in open areas. Some regions, such as Botswana's Okavango Delta, are best visited during the wet season, from November to April, when the floodplains come alive with lush greenery, migratory bird species, and a vibrant ecosystem. However, the rainy season can make some areas challenging to access due to muddy roads and increased mosquito activity. According to luxury travel advisor Alli Allen of Travel Edge, 'The beauty of a honeymoon safari is that it can really take place any time if couples are open to going where the conditions that time of year are best for fantastic game viewing.' She emphasizes that the Great Migration is a year-round cycle, with wildlife always on the move. An African safari is generally safe, but travelers should take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Many safari destinations require vaccinations such as yellow fever, and some areas have a risk of malaria. It is essential to consult a travel doctor well in advance of your trip to ensure you receive the necessary vaccinations and prescriptions for malaria prevention medication. It is highly recommended to invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and emergency evacuations. Some safari destinations are remote, making emergency medical transport essential in case of an accident or sudden illness. When choosing a safari, book with reputable lodges and tour operators that prioritize safety. While major parks and reserves are well-secured, it is advisable to avoid traveling alone at night in cities or unfamiliar areas. Additionally, keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings when in urban locations before or after your safari. Each national park and game reserve has its own rules to protect both wildlife and visitors. It is crucial to follow all park regulations, including not feeding animals, not disturbing wildlife, staying inside safari vehicles unless instructed otherwise, and listening to your guide's safety instructions at all times. Alli Allen also advises honeymooners to consider the cultural context of each destination: 'Africa is a diverse continent with a tapestry of customs, traditions, languages, and religions. Some countries are LGBTQ-friendly, and others are not. It's important to be well-informed about these differences.' A safari typically follows a structured itinerary, allowing for maximum wildlife viewing and comfort. Here is a general outline of how a safari unfolds: Your safari adventure begins by flying into a major airport such as Nairobi in Kenya, Johannesburg in South Africa, or Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. From there, a connecting flight or road transfer will take you to your safari destination. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can stay in luxury lodges, tented camps, or more budget-friendly accommodations. Some lodges are located within private reserves, offering a more exclusive and intimate wildlife experience. Most safaris include two game drives per day, one early in the morning and another in the late afternoon, each lasting approximately three to four hours. Between game drives, guests enjoy meals at their lodge, relax by the pool, or participate in guided nature walks and other activities. Some safaris include cultural excursions, sunset cocktails in the bush, or romantic private dinners to enhance the honeymoon experience. After several days on safari, you may return home or extend your trip with a beach holiday in a nearby coastal destination. Both Allen and Calmeyer observe that many honeymooners are increasingly interested in multi-stop itineraries. 'They want to see and do as much as possible,' says Allen. 'International airfare is very expensive, and using their long haul flight as a launch pad to broaden their experience in other African countries fits the bill.' At the same time, Calmeyer emphasizes the value of balancing relaxation and exploration: 'A well-crafted luxury safari itinerary ensures that transitions between locations are seamless, providing the perfect blend of adventure and downtime.' Mahali Mzuri, part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition collection, is a celebrated luxury safari camp nestled in Kenya's Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Often ranked among the top hotels in the world, the camp features 12 beautifully appointed tents that combine sleek, modern design with regional craftsmanship. Guests are treated to pan-African cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. After morning and evening game drives, unwind beside the firepit with a drink, soak in the heated infinity pool, or book a massage at the serene Nasaro Spa. There's also the opportunity to visit a nearby Maasai village for a meaningful cultural exchange and firsthand insight into the community's way of life. Mara Plains Camp sits within the 35,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, bordering Kenya's famed Maasai Mara National Reserve. Guests at this camp enjoy exclusive access to nearly 100,000 acres of private conservancy land in addition to the Maasai Mara, offering one of the most expansive and diverse safari experiences in the region—especially during the Great Migration. The camp features five elevated guest suites, each built atop recycled railway sleepers and designed with a nod to East Africa's safari heritage. Guests can embark on both day and night game drives across the conservancy and Maasai Mara, while hot air balloon safaris are available by request at an additional cost. Sala's Camp is an exclusive safari retreat nestled in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve. With just seven luxury tents, including two family suites and two secluded honeymoon tents, the camp offers an intimate and personalized experience. Each tent features a private plunge pool and terrace, providing guests with comfort and privacy amidst the wilderness. Situated in a prime location, Sala's Camp offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, including the chance to witness the Great Migration up close. Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as guided game drives, sundowners with breathtaking views, and cultural visits, all while being immersed in the sights and sounds of the African bush. Cottar's 1920s Camp is an award-winning luxury safari lodge located in Kenya's private Olderkesi Conservancy, just one kilometer from the Maasai Mara National Reserve and near the Serengeti. This intimate camp features eleven spacious cream canvas tents, each elegantly furnished in the romantic style of the 1920s, offering guests a nostalgic yet luxurious safari experience. Owned and operated by a fifth-generation safari family, Cottar's emphasizes conservation, community, culture, and commerce, earning recognition as a Global Ecosphere Retreat. Guests can enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing, professional guiding, and a range of activities, all while contributing to sustainable tourism and local community development. Giraffe Manor is a boutique hotel located in Nairobi's Lang'ata suburb, renowned for its resident herd of endangered Rothschild's giraffes that freely roam the 12-acre property. Guests often experience close encounters with these gentle giants, who may poke their heads through windows during breakfast or tea time. The manor, built in 1932 and modeled after a Scottish hunting lodge, offers 12 elegantly furnished rooms that blend classic charm with modern comforts. Its proximity to Nairobi makes it a convenient and unforgettable addition to any Kenyan safari itinerary. A safari honeymoon offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Here are some unforgettable experiences to consider: The most common way to experience a safari is through morning and evening game drives, led by expert guides. These drives offer the best chance of spotting the Big Five and other wildlife, as animals are most active during these times. For a more immersive experience, guided walking safaris, such as those in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, allow you to observe wildlife up close and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, including animal tracks and native plants. Safari lodges and camps range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Many high-end lodges offer spa treatments, private plunge pools, and romantic candlelit dinners under the stars, making them perfect for honeymooners. One of the most romantic and breathtaking safari experiences is taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the African savanna. This is especially popular in Kenya's Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti, offering panoramic views of wildlife roaming below. Visiting local Maasai villages in Kenya and Tanzania or engaging with San Bushmen communities in Botswana provides an opportunity to learn about indigenous cultures, traditions, and ways of life. In destinations like Botswana's Okavango Delta and Zambia's Zambezi River, boat safaris allow you to explore waterways and see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife up close. Many honeymooners extend their safari with a beach retreat in exotic locations such as Zanzibar, Seychelles, or Mozambique. Deborah Calmeyer, CEO of ROAR Africa, notes that 'more honeymooners are opting for Mozambique due to its easy access from Johannesburg, allowing them to seamlessly combine a city stay in Cape Town with safari and an idyllic beach retreat.' The variety of wildlife you will encounter depends on the region you visit. The famous Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—are among the most sought-after animals to see. Other incredible wildlife includes: Expect to see massive herds of wildebeest and zebras, as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant flamingos around lakes such as Lake Nakuru in Kenya. In this region, you may spot African wild dogs, hyenas, warthogs, hippos, kudu, and the rare sable antelope, which is native to areas such as Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. For those interested in primates, Uganda and Rwanda offer the unique opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park. Calmeyer mentions that 'Rwanda has emerged as a top choice. Gorilla trekking, paired with some of the most spectacular lodges on the continent, offers an extraordinary experience.' Africa is a birdwatcher's paradise, with thousands of species, including the striking lilac-breasted roller, the powerful African fish eagle, and the elusive shoebill stork found in Uganda's wetlands. Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a high-quality camera with a zoom lens, binoculars, and sun protection to enhance your experience. Safari lodges fill up quickly, especially in peak season, so it is best to book at least six months in advance. Consider whether you prefer witnessing the Great Migration, tracking gorillas, or pairing a safari with a beach retreat. Let your lodge know if you are celebrating a honeymoon, as many offer special perks such as private dinners and room upgrades. Calmeyer recommends working with a travel advisor who is based in or deeply familiar with Africa. 'Honeymooners come to us to cut through the overwhelming number of options and craft a journey that speaks to their unique travel style.'
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Coca-Cola's ex-CEO is spending retirement swimming with sharks and climbing with gorillas—and he's not slowing down
At 78 years old, Coca-Cola's ex-CEO Douglas Ivester is planning his 11th safari. It's a tradition he started in the first 12 months on stepping down from the top job at the $309 billion beverage giant. What do you do after stepping down from Coca-Cola's helm? For the former CEO, it's taking month-long excursions around Africa. When Douglas Ivester stepped down as the $309 billion beverage giant's CEO and chair at the turn of the century, he knew the continent of gold savannah, vast deserts and tropical rainforests was the first place he wanted to visit with his newfound free time. 'My first trips to Africa were to work because we had businesses in South Africa and East Africa particularly,' Ivester recalls in an interview with Fortune. 'When I retired, I wanted to take my wife, so we put together the first trip to Africa, which included Kenya and Tanzania.' 'We spent a day visiting medical facilities, including an AIDS clinic. We spent some time in schools, and we spent time with local artists, talking to them about their artistic ability and product and things like that, in addition to all the other things that people would go see—the animals and the landscape, all the things like that.' It's been over 25 years since, and Douglas Ivester has made a tradition of taking yearly month-long vacations all over the world—and has found himself back in Africa many times along the way. 'We've maintained what traditionally people call a bucket list of things to do… I wanted to climb in Rwanda to visit the mountain gorillas. So we took a trip that included that in the middle of the trip,' Ivester adds. 'I wanted to do Asia and wander around in Asia and see what I can learn there. So I did that.' In 2017, he says he spent 30 days discovering Southeast Asia. The pandemic, of course, put his annual vacation to an abrupt halt. But now, at 78, he's planning his 11th 'Rewild' safari with Botswana and Kenya on the cards for 2026. For the growing number of leaders taking a sabbatical, a Rewilding Safari offers the chance to participate in wildlife conservation efforts, like releasing Darwin's rhea in Patagonia National Park and planting trees in Madagascar and Sumatra. Just don't think of it as a vacation, Ivester warns. How much does it cost? Ivester estimates that an all-inclusive trip at a safari camp will set you back $50,000, including airfare. What's so special about Africa? 'I've been to Latin America, I've been to Asia, but Africa is my favorite place to go to is Africa. It's so vast. It is so different. It is learning something new almost every minute of the trip. And I like that,' Ivester says. 'We attempt to incorporate as many learning experiences as possible. As an example, we were in Cape Town in South Africa, and we took a day and went out to go swimming with the great white sharks and a superb experience.' 'To take a balloon ride over the Great Migration is something you can't describe, you just have to experience it. To ride an elephant in South Africa at one of the camps down there, you cannot describe it, but I've done it… You have to be there and be there in the moment and be willing to take some risk.' 'I wouldn't describe our trips as 'vacations'. A vacation implies rest and relaxation. And I would say we're more moving around and learning and experiencing life, and we have to rest when we get home.' Do safaris have good WiFi? 'That is an ever-changing situation,' the retired chief says. '20 years ago, the answer was no. You really didn't have phone service, and certainly no internet connection or anything like that. In more recent years, a lot of the hotels do have coverage, and the phone service is much, much better, but it improves on a yearly basis.' Any word of warning for execs?'My word of caution would be to plan every day and to research every day and make sure you go into it with an understanding of what you want to accomplish,' Ivester recommends. 'A really good Safari trip will probably take a year to plan and a year to schedule. And if you've got it done that way, you'll probably have a very successful trip, but you can't do things sort of spur of the moment.' A two-day excerpt from The Magic of Africa, a private safari designed for Mr. & Mrs. Ivester and friends in late June. Day 1 Location: Little Kwara Camp, , Okavango Delta, Botswana Background: The Kwara Reserve shares its southern boundary with the Moremi Game Reserve. It encompasses a wide variety of wildlife habitats, ranging from deep-water lagoons and thick papyrus beds to dry-county scrub and mopane forests. Nestled on the edge of the permanent waters of the Okavango, Little Kwara Camp's five canvas tents are elevated into the tree canopy on wooden decks. Morning: Wake up to an early morning wake-up call—a gentle voice saying 'Good Morning' just outside the tent. Following breakfast, we venture out in the custom-designed Land Cruiser for our morning game drive. At this time of year, the water is high, so we frequently have to drive through water. The tracker scans for the footprints of the animals we seek. We venture into the bush, eventually finding the small lion pride whose prints he found. We watch the small lion cubs chase each other until one of them finds its mother and begins to nurse. The other two cubs join their siblings as their mother lies contentedly in the shade. Later, we venture further, scanning the trees for the most elusive big cat: the leopard. After a rewarding game drive, we return to camp for lunch. Afternoon: We venture into the Okavango Delta's waterways in a traditional canoe called the mokoro. Floating along the channels between the reeds, the guide uses a long pole to navigate the two-foot deep crystal-clear water. We enjoy the calm silence of gliding along as we watch various birds fly over us. Eventually, we reach an island, where we disembark and take a gentle walk among the trees. The safari guide points out the various trees and shrubs and explains how some are used in the traditional day-to-day life of the local inhabitants. As we approach the end of the island, we find a team from the camp waiting for us. We order our beverages, enjoy some snacks and toast the setting sun as it disappears over the western horizon. We return to Little Kwara by motorboat, arriving just before dark. We have time to shower before returning to the dining area, where dinner is served under the African sky. Day Two: The Selinda Reserve Background: While not as famous as its southern neighbor, the Okavango Delta, the Selinda Reserve is an incredible 521-square-mile wilderness. By this time of year, large numbers of migrating wildlife have joined the permanent residents who thrive on these open savannas. A variety of antelope species are found, along with giraffe, warthog, baboons, and vervet monkeys. Lion, cheetah, and spotted hyena are the primary large predators. But there are two species of wildlife that make the Selinda Concession stand out: The Cape hunting dog and large breeding herds of elephants. The experts at Great Plains Conservation estimate that over 9000 elephants make Selinda their temporary home during the dry season. Morning: Following breakfast, we are driven to the airstrip and board a Cessna Caravan aircraft for our flight into northern Botswana. Our destination is Selinda Camp, and our goals are twofold: to find the elusive African painted dogs and experience the influx of hundreds of elephants. We land and with our tracker perched on the Land Cruiser's hood, we begin our journey. Eventually, the tracker finds something interesting and tells the guide to drive into the bush. We sit silently and hear yelping sounds. The guide whispers to us that we are near the den site, where the alpha female has recently given birth to her pups. Although the den is hidden from us, we see a handful of the African painted dogs resting in the shade. We continue on to camp, where we are warmly greeted by the Selinda team. We are each handed a cool moist washcloth and a welcoming drink to freshen up after our journey. After a briefing about the camp, we are escorted to our 'tent'—home for the next two nights. Afternoon: Following lunch, we rest until our afternoon game drive. As we drive into the bush, ithin a few minutes we come upon a herd of 12 elephants, with two very young babies. As we watch the adults chewing on tree branches, the baby elephants nurse within about twenty feet of our vehicle. As evening approaches, we begin to return to camp and come across a big bull elephant. Our guide tells us the bull is heading toward the group of elephants we just visited. His goal is to find out if any of them are ready to breed. We return to camp. After showering, we sit around the campfire as our guide summarizes the day's adventures and discusses plans for tomorrow. As we crawl into bed, we hear a distinct sound in the distance—the mighty roar of a male lion telling all that this is his territory. It's the perfect sound to end another fascinating day in the African bush. This story was originally featured on
Yahoo
27-05-2025
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How Maasai culture coexists with safari in southern Kenya
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). 'Simba!' The urgent whisper — 'lion' in Swahili — comes from Julius Naurori as he stands bolt upright in the back of our 4WD like a human antenna. Immediately, our guide in the front slows the car to a cautious prowl and a hush descends, save for the tinkling silver discs tied to Julius's waist as they sway in time with the rocking of the car. The dawn sky is still blushing crimson, and at first it's hard to see what's almost directly in front of us: four sleeping lions, their chocolate manes camouflaged as they lie on their sides in long, unruly grass marking the banks of the Mara River. Our guide is Roca River Camp co-owner Ross Withey, and Julius, our wildlife-spotter, is his wingman on this safari drive in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Julius is a man of few words, but he can read the savannah's undulating plains and its complex ecosystems like the creases of his hands. 'The hippos are not going to be lucky tonight,' he says, remarking on the lions' lean bellies as we watch their rib cages rise and fall. We are totally alone, save for the haunting cry of a tropical boubou hidden in the riverine tree branches. Like most wildlife-spotters in the Mara, Julius is Maasai. He comes from a long line of nomadic pastoralists who have driven cattle across southern Kenya and northern Tanzania's Serengeti for centuries. It's the same corridor used by wildebeest during the annual Great Migration, with both cattle and wildlife following the pastures and water. This natural event has made the Mara one of Africa's most popular safari destinations, yet for young spotters like Julius, it's also home. Keeping a constant eye out for big cats comes with the territory. It's been less than 24 hours since I landed in the Maasai Mara, and this famous park is already challenging my preconceived ideas of what it means for a place to be wild. I'd expected it to be virtually uninhabited, but it's far from it. On the flight in from Nairobi, there were vast, undeveloped clay-coloured plains and deeply gouged escarpments like sculptures. And in between the land's natural contours, I'd spotted distinct man-made circles — small Maasai villages protected by traditional fencing systems called bomas, where farmers eke out a living. Interspersed with herds of antelopes, there had been cows. Almost half of Kenya's healthy population of lions stalks the Maasai Mara. It's hard to imagine a world where these large predators can coexist with villages hosting livestock farmers and their cattle, but the four now in front of me certainly aren't fazed by human presence. Eventually, one lazily lifts his head and fixes his eyes on us, and our driver restarts the car to move on. A few minutes later, we pull into Roca River Camp — a line of 10 comfortable canvas tents dotted among persimmon trees on a raised bank facing the Mara River inside the reserve. Behind the tents, a halo effect is forming on the never-ending plains of grass that stretch away from the river, the rising sun burnishing each strand an ethereal gold. I'm on a tour of southern Kenya designed by Explorations Company, an Africa veteran with close ties to the conservation-led African Wildlife Foundation. The operator has spent 30 years scoping out small camps like this one that can offer the most intimate wildlife experiences while educating guests about local conservation efforts. Roca is family-run by Kenyans Caro and Ross Withey; it was Caro's dad, Willie Roberts, who established the first wildlife conservancy on public land in Kenya in the 1980s. Today, sitting alongside national parks and reserves, there are 170 conservancies across the country, covering almost 6.5 million hectares — 11% of Kenya's landmass. In the Maasai Mara, the model gives the traditional Maasai landowners a rental fee from the lodges and a nightly fee for every guest, creating a compelling reason to live harmoniously with the wildlife rather than prey on it. 'Here in the Mara, people are no longer killing predators for fun — they only kill them for protection,' explains Dominic Sakat, a community outreach officer from the Mara Predator Project who joins us for lunch later that day. The initiative was launched by the Kenya Wildlife Trust in 2013, at a time when Maasai warriors were still hunting lions as a traditional rite of passage. While this practice has now been all but stamped out and poaching is down, too, Dominic explains that lions are still under threat from farmers trying to protect their highly prized livestock. We're sitting at a long, communal table in front of the camp while a muscular, tusked warthog ferrets in the grasses behind us and two hippos slosh around in the river below. But Dominic, wearing a sand-coloured safari shirt and sunglasses balanced on his head, only has eyes for the big cats. His job is to work with Mara communities to assess and monitor threats to the area's major predators, which include elusive leopards and a small, fragile population of cheetahs, as well as lions. Having grown up in a local Maasai village, Dominic has seen first-hand that one of the greatest challenges the animals now face is human population growth. It's estimated that more than 70% of Kenya's wildlife lives outside of protected reserve areas and national parks, and human-wildlife conflict is increasing. The Maasai farmers and wildlife are crossing paths more frequently and local villages are encroaching further into wildlife terrain. 'In the Mara, the human population doubles every nine years,' he says. 'And if you drive around, you'll see there are no barriers between wildlife and communities.' Conservation, therefore, is more important than ever in this region. This fenceless existence gives me pause for thought again when we drive out for sunset at one of the Mara River's famous crossings. Some half a million wildebeest — and countless safari 4WDs — pass here during the annual Great Migration. Out of season, there's nobody here but us and a vast pod of hippos wallowing in the water at our feet. How fast can a hippo run, I wonder, as I stand at the water's edge watching theatrical yawns reveal giant fangs. 'Faster than you'd imagine,' says camp manager Philip McLellan as he pours a round of drinks. Their sonorous grunts erupt like a loud conversation, masking the sound of the ice clinking in our gin and tonics. 'I have a saying that one of them farts and the others all laugh,' he adds with a wry smile. Flying over Lake Magadi on the borders of Kenya and Tanzania the following day is like a vision from Dante's hell. 'You definitely don't want to swim in it. It would burn your skin off,' says our co-pilot Aaron D'Cruz through his headset as we bank down low for a closer look at the lake's potent soda ash crust in our 12-seater propeller plane. We're on our way to Shompole, a safari region southeast of the Mara that's far less known. Explorations Company anticipates it's on the cusp of finally getting the attention it deserves, thanks to the opening of a luxury lodge from high-profile safari operator Great Plains in 2026, but we're headed for another small, family-run camp called Shompole Wilderness. Below us, the lake's mottled surface creates beautiful, rippling veins that look like stilton. The soda ash is one of the area's biggest exports, but the nutrients also make the area a prolific breeding ground for flamingos and pelicans, which draws bird enthusiasts. Before long, the plane is surrounded by flamingos. Some fly straight past my window; others appear to float below our metal wings, like dozens of pink arrows soaring towards invisible targets. From up here, I can see the same circular village bomas I'd seen flying over the Mara, but the landscape is much more arid — the earth cracked like a dry heel, small whirlwinds called dust devils spinning around lonely acacia trees. 'What makes Shompole so special is that the river flowing from the escarpment provides a green area and swamp — that's why all the wildlife comes here during the dry season,' says Aaron. Sure enough, as we land, I see an eruption of greenery in the parched expanse below. The river in question is the Ewaso Ng'iro, and it's right in front of my base for the next two nights, which is run by Kenyans Sam and Johann du Toit. There are just six wood-hewn guest rooms built by Johann, rooted among the riverbank foliage, with a small pool, a bird hide and a large, communal, open-sided lounge with steps down to the river. Like Roca, this camp has close ties to the Maasai and conservation initiatives. It recruits from local communities and invests in training, while Sam is the right-hand woman of Maasai conservation leader John Kamanga. Winner of the 2020 Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa, John is a passionate advocate for fence-free landscapes and has dedicated his career to finding a way for pastoralists and wildlife to coexist in the South Rift landscape. He's the co-founder of SORALO (South Rift Association of Land Owners), a community-based organisation for which Sam acts as consultant. It employs 147 Maasai rangers who patrol an area half the size of Belgium. 'Because of their work, the camp can exist,' Sam tells me as she shows me around, her loose-fitting cotton trousers smudged with traces of earth, beaded Maasai anklets above her trainers. It's noticeably hotter here than in the Mara. Outside my room, I find a resident troop of baboons cooling off by jumping gleefully into the fudge-coloured water, their bare bums slapping on the surface with an almighty crash. Before long, the water calls me in, too — it's rare to find a river like this one in southern Kenya without crocodiles and hippos, and one of the lodge's specialities is river tubing and kayaking. The baboons scarper as my group, including the owners' kids and their dog, scramble into fat tyre rings and take off into the slow, tepid flow. It's a welcome change of pace from the 4WD and a fresh perspective on the shoreline. The fig trees framing the bank rustle with vervet monkeys, and I can pick out the faint imprint of a path along the bank closest to my room, which is used as an elephant corridor. The absence of other guests makes the setting feel almost primeval; there are no sounds save for the languid flow of water and occasional chatter of the kids. Later that day, I head out again in the 4WD. This time it's with Johann, a broad-shouldered man with a booming voice and wicked sense of humour. We're en route to spend the night at his passion project — a solar-powered photography hide around a watering hole, three miles from camp. Also in the car is Richard 'Maren' Merenkoi — a 24-year-old Maasai man robed in a traditional red shuka (a cloth garment and a symbol of the Maasai's resilience), whose face lights up when he smiles. He began his career at Shompole Wilderness five years ago, initially in room service. 'The animals make this place,' he says as we pass a dazzle of zebras nibbling among a thatch of thorny acacia bushes, kicking up earth the colour of lion's fur. 'It's our pride to have them; in the conservancy, people, livestock and wildlife — we all live together.' This understanding, that animal protection is far more powerful than poaching or hunting, has become more common in the conservancy zones in the past decade thanks to efforts by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to engage the local communities that live within them. 'When I was a kid, an NGO came to my school to talk about the benefits of conservation. One day, I'd like to do the same,' Maren tells me. Next year, the camp will help pay to put him through his guide training so he can get qualified. It's just before dusk when we arrive at the hide — a half-sunken metal container with grass walls that have been scorched by the sun. 'We knew the area wasn't a good grazing zone, so the Maasai wouldn't mind if we set up here,' says Johann as he navigates the water's edge, checking lighting hook-ups haven't been chewed by baboons, then wades in to clean the pool's surface to maximise its mirrored reflection. Once the location had been approved by the local communities, he employed local Maasai to help dig the 52.5-foot pool and the channels for the piping that comes from the river to fill it. It doesn't look like much from the back, but Johann tells me that since it was completed three years ago, it's been attracting photographers from all over the world. Its USP is the specialist lighting, with front and side hook-ups, plus 59 feet of backlighting, all on dimmer switches to create atmosphere and ensure animals don't get blinded or disturbed. 'I wanted to get it right,' he tells me. 'But I also wanted to make the hide accessible for people with smartphone cameras.' Bookings at Shompole Wilderness are starting to soar, because of it. 'The hide has changed our whole business.' With glasses of Chardonnay poured and chicken curry served in tiffin boxes, we settle in on a row of directors' chairs inside. It isn't long before four stocky warthogs arrive, one trotting straight into the water and plonking himself down, a puff of dust rising from his belly. Through the glassless windows, we have an eye-level view, backdropped by the hulk of Mt Shompole rearing in the distance. The framing is so perfect it looks like a CGI film set. As darkness creeps in and Maren and Johann start playing with the lighting's dimmer switches, a giraffe lollops by, splaying its legs comically to get low enough to drink. The procession of animals continues long into the night. Elephants come within a hair's breadth of my seat, spraying water in broad arcs that glitter like falling stars as they catch the backlights. Finally we get a succession of lions. Although they can't see us in the hide, they keep their eyes firmly fixed on our position on the far side of the pond as four of them drink in a row. They're so close, I can hear them lapping. While Johann is in the process of building another hide, Sam is working with SORALO to trial a new tour for guests of Shompole Wilderness, in partnership with the organisation's Ilaaretok programme. The express purpose of the Ilaaretok initiative is to reduce human-wildlife conflict by employing members of the local Maasai villages as extra pairs of eyes and hands — community guardians, if you will. In the Maasai language, the word ilaaretok means 'helpers'. The following day, I set out to join them in one of their roles: getting cattle home and unharmed each night by accompanying farmers on the walk back to their villages. I hear the clang of cowbells tumbling over the plains before we reach the 70-strong herd, and the dozen or so Maasai men driving them forward. The Ilaaretok's role is one of deterrent, keeping watch and trying to prevent possible wildlife conflict scenarios. Unlike rangers, they don't carry guns; some choose to wield the traditional Maasai spear instead. Alongside daily cattle watches, they raise the alarm when lion pawprints are spotted, transport injured cows for veterinary care and track lost livestock to bring it back to farmers. It seems odd to be out on foot in lion country, but also wonderfully freeing. Knives at their waists, rigid bead necklaces ringing their throats, decorative belts hung loose, the farmers and their Ilaaretok companions walk in a banded line. 'The Ilaaretok are the first people out in the landscape in the morning and last at night,' says Joshua Lesikar Parsaloi, the stocky group supervisor, as we walk slowly together across the plains, the hot embers of the day still warming the earth beneath our boots. Dressed head to toe in desert-storm beige, he explains that every six months, the team of patrollers rotates, to help spread the employment opportunity among the local communities. It's an in-demand job, as the role requires fewer qualifications or experience than is needed to become a ranger. Launched three years ago, the programme has been hailed a great success and now employs 72 people in eight groups, two of which operate in Shompole. Joshua pauses to point out a pair of hoof prints stamped into the dust at our feet. 'This one is a gazelle, this one is a cow,' he says, highlighting how closely the land is shared between wildlife and livestock. The sun is starting to wane, sucking the heat out of the sky. Knowing from my night in the hide how many lions roam this area at night, I suddenly wonder if maybe we're being watched. I ask if there could be cause for concern, us strolling across Shompole in the footsteps of these great predators. But Joshua just chuckles. For the Maasai, the wildlife is a simple fact of life. 'It's not easy to attack a cow in an open area like this — they're afraid of us.' And besides, he says, 'a lion is very friendly compared to a buffalo'. He looks back at me as we walk on, passing a clump of acacia from which a couple of herders are trying to coax some goats, and adds with a matter-of-fact shrug: 'The buffalo will wait for you behind a bush.' Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
