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Arrival in Nairobi and First Impressions
There are trips you research, trips you plan, and then trips you experience. Kenya is that kind of destination.
I had the privilege of traveling on an educational trip to Kenya, designed for travel professionals to experience destinations, hotels, and tours firsthand. I arrived in Nairobi late at night, tired but brimming with anticipation for what was to come, and by morning, it was clear that Kenya was going to exceed every expectation.
After meeting my fellow travelers, we set out to explore Nairobi, beginning with visits that immediately set the tone for the journey. The Giraffe Centre, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and the Karen Blixen House were all deeply worthwhile, but one stood out above the rest.
I especially loved the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Watching orphaned elephants being cared for with such devotion was a powerful reminder that safari travel is not just about wildlife viewing, but about conservation, stewardship, and connection.
Leaving the City Behind
That sense of purpose followed us as we left the city behind and headed north toward Laikipia County. The drive was about five and a half hours long and rugged, but intentional. I wanted to understand what this experience feels like for clients who choose to travel by road rather than by air. I’m glad we did it though, so I know what the experience is like so I can advise clients on the pros and cons of flying vs. driving from Nairobi.
First Safari Moments in Laikipia
Our first camp, Jambo Mutara, sits just outside Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia County, and the magic began almost immediately. Laikipia is known for its remarkable wildlife density outside the Maasai Mara, and Ol Pejeta is a secure, fenced conservancy that serves as an essential safe haven for wildlife and conservation efforts alike.
Our first morning game drive departed at 7 AM and luck was entirely on our side during the whole five hours. We saw 4 of the Big 5 just on that drive. African Elephants moved silently across the landscape. Lions rested in the grass. Rhinos and Cape Buffalos appeared in the distance.
We also spotted zebra, dik-dik, reticulated giraffe, gazelle, waterbuck, and more bird species than I could possibly name. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat was thrilling, especially with the ability to stand through the vehicle’s pop top, camera in hand, fully immersed in the moment.
Bush Walks, Sundowners, and Evenings Under the Sky
After lunch, we set out on a guided bush walk which is a slower, guided safari experience on foot, giving you the chance to step out of the vehicle and truly connect with the landscape within the Jambo Mutara reserve in a more intimate way.
We ended the day with our first incredible sundowner, gathering in a scenic outdoor spot near camp to sip drinks and enjoy small bites as the sun melted into the horizon. As the sun dipped below the horizon, drinks were poured, the air cooled, and Kenya began to feel less like a destination and more like a story unfolding around us.
Journey Into the Masai Mara
The next morning, we were driven to a bush breakfast at 7:30 AM. From there, we checked out of the camp and the journey continued through Lake Nakuru and onward toward the Masai Mara. We spent the night at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge after our four-hour drive, an ideal stop to break up the long ride before continuing to the Masai Mara the following day.
The drive from Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge to Sarova Mara Game Camp was four hours and well worth it, as we headed straight out for an afternoon game drive before returning to the lodge for a comfortable dinner.
Another early morning wakeup call had us on the road by 6:45am, a rhythm we had come to embrace. The day delivered yet another spectacular round of game viewing, followed by dinner and an early night in preparation for tomorrow’s next adventure.
Naibor Camp and Barefoot Luxury
Then came Naibor Camp. Smaller. More intimate and still within the Masai Mara. Naibor ended up being my favorite camp of them all. Most authentic and surrounded by nature. Located along the Talek River, the camp is unfenced and hippos wandered through at night. Moving through the camp after dark is only permitted with armed Maasai guards due to the wildlife.
Mornings began with tea delivered to my tent and the quiet moments reflecting on my trip thus far while watching the river outside. It was barefoot luxury at its finest, striking the perfect balance between elevated, customized comfort and an easygoing, environmentally mindful atmosphere.
A Group Bonded by the Journey
By this point in the journey, our group had become incredibly close. Sharing early mornings, safari drives, unforgettable wildlife sightings, and evenings around the fire create a bond that is hard to replicate. Saying goodbye was bittersweet, especially knowing my journey was continuing solo.
A Solo Safari in Amboseli
We all flew back to Nairobi, stayed the night and the next morning, I traveled another four hours south to Amboseli. Arriving at Ol Tukai Lodge in time for lunch felt like a welcome reward after the drive. That afternoon, I set out on my first Amboseli game drive, and it exceeded every expectation. With the rest of the group already on their way home, I had private safari drives for two days, making the experience feel tailored and deeply personal.
Amboseli is known for its large elephant population and its views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and I can say without hesitation, both things are absolutely true!
Elephants dominated the landscape, often silhouetted against Mount Kilimanjaro, while lion prides rested in the shade and hyenas slipped past our vehicle. The elephants are for sure the stars here, along with Topi an antelope known as “blue jeans” for their blue grey markings, waterbuck, Grant’s and Thompson’s gazelle, Grevy’s and common zebra, and a jackal mother with her babies. The sheer abundance of wildlife was overwhelming in the best possible way.
Every drive offered something new, and having a guide who knew the park intimately made all the difference!
Why Firsthand Experience Matters
As the journey came to an end, a few things became profoundly clear. Safari travel is layered, logistical, and deeply nuanced. Flights versus drives. Camp styles. Park and lodging geography. Seasonal wildlife movement. Accessibility. Pacing.
I feel confident to talk about the different kinds of safari experiences, and I gained incredible knowledge of the logistics involved in traveling on safari in Kenya. That confidence comes only from being there.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Own Safari?
If Kenya is on your list, or even just beginning to spark your curiosity, we would love to help you explore it thoughtfully and intentionally. Safari is not a one size that fits all journey, and that is exactly what makes it so extraordinary!
If you are ready to start planning a safari that truly fits you? Reach out today! Contact our excellent travel experts at 503-224-0180 or email inquiry@wittravel.com.
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