Kenya: A Dream Safari – My Journey Through the Heart of Africa

Cultivating Connections Travel Planners
Jun 26
6 min read

As many of you know, I recently had the opportunity to embark on a dream trip to Kenya. Kenya is not a place I had wanted to visit until I traveled to South Africa last year. Now, I’m beyond excited to share some of the highlights from this incredible adventure and give you a glimpse of how you can experience it too.

Kenya, Safari, Africa, luxury travel, CCTP, Cultivating Connections Travel Planners, empty-nester — Kenya: A Dream Safari – My Journey Through the Heart of Africa

Nairobi and the Elegant Hemingways

Kenya is about the size of Texas, and our journey took us across four distinct and breathtaking regions: Amboseli, Lewa, Loisaba, and the iconic Maasai Mara. To maximize our time, we flew between locations in Air Safari planes, which offered jaw-dropping aerial views of the landscape and helped us skip long travel times on the ground.

Our trip began in Nairobi, but more specifically, the Karen area, known for its lush environment and tranquil atmosphere. We stayed at a stunning property that perfectly balanced comfort and elegance. This luxurious start was exactly what we needed to decompress after an exhausting long-haul flight and adjust to the time difference.

Exploring Nairobi: Conservation and History

While in Nairobi, we visited some iconic spots that gave us a deeper understanding of Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation and history. One of the most emotional visits was to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where we had the chance to meet orphaned elephants being raised with the goal of re-releasing them back into the wild. It was humbling to witness the caretakers’ devotion and the bond they share with the elephants. We also had the unique opportunity to feed endangered giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, a place dedicated to the preservation of the Rothschild giraffe.

We rounded out our time in Nairobi with a visit to the Karen Blixen House, famous for her autobiography Out of Africa. Touring the house was like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the life of the Danish author who fell in love with Kenya. The history, combined with the vibrant culture, set the stage for the next phase of our journey.

Amboseli National Park: A Place Where Time Stops

From Nairobi, we flew to Amboseli National Park, and it was here that my soul truly began to connect with the land. The experience started in the most unforgettable way: arriving by private plane with champagne in hand. The feeling of exclusivity and adventure was palpable.

One evening, on a game drive, I witnessed a herd of elephants crossing the plains with the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the background. It felt like time had stopped. The golden light of the setting sun, the silhouettes of the elephants. Everything about the moment was so perfectly serene and timeless.

This is why I travel: to experience moments like this. It’s why I plan with such care, ensuring every detail of a trip helps create lasting memories. And it’s why I encourage you to consider a safari. I t’s truly an experience that will stay with you forever.

Lewa Conservancy: Adventure, Conservation, and Surprise Encounters

After Amboseli, we headed to the Lewa Conservancy, where I encountered a mix of adventure and heart-stopping wildlife moments. The landscape of Lewa was lush and verdant, an entirely different world compared to Amboseli's dry plains. Upon arrival at our Safari Camp, I immediately felt that deep connection to the land and the people who are actively working to protect it.

One of the most powerful experiences in Lewa came in the early hours of the morning. We watched lions feast on a fresh zebra kill, with jackals and hyenas lurking nearby, vying for scraps. It was a raw, real, and unforgettable display of nature at its finest. But the surprises didn’t stop there.

Later that day, we ventured to Ngare Ndare Forest Park and hiked through a dense forest to a hidden waterfall—a magical sight in its own right. Just as we were taking in the beauty of the falls, Mother Nature decided to remind us who’s in charge, and we were caught in a downpour. But that’s the thing about nature, it’s unpredictable, and it keeps you on your toes.

What made Lewa even more special was its dedication to conservation. The camp is part of the efforts to protect the black rhino, Grevy’s zebra, and many other endangered species. Your visit here isn’t just an escape. It’s a chance to make a positive impact. This is why I travel. This is why I guide my clients to experiences that connect them deeply with the land.

Loisaba Conservancy: Where Luxury Meets Conservation

The next stop on my journey was Loisaba Conservancy. A hidden gem in the rugged, remote corners of Kenya. The area feels untouched, wild, and full of soul, much like the landscape itself. I stayed at a Tented Camp, where luxury meets nature in the most seamless way. The design was open, and the views were sweeping. At night, I slept deeply, feeling like I was in the heart of the universe.

While at Loisaba, I had the opportunity to do a site inspection of two other properties. The Star Beds, in particular, are an unforgettable experience. Imagine sleeping under the African sky with just a mosquito net separating you from the stars. It’s a bucket-list experience like no other.

Another incredible experience at Loisaba was meeting Mulder and Scully, the conservancy’s sniffer dogs. Yes, you read that right. Dogs on safari! These highly trained dogs, along with their handlers, are part of the team working tirelessly to prevent poaching and protect the wildlife of the conservancy. Watching these dogs in action was inspiring and incredibly heartwarming. They are a critical part of the conservation efforts here.

But conservation isn’t just about protecting animals. It’s also about protecting the land. Loisaba is tackling the problem of invasive cactus plants that threaten the native vegetation. It’s a quiet but vital form of conservation, and it was eye-opening to learn about the ongoing efforts to restore balance to the ecosystem.

Maasai Mara: A Dream Come True

My journey culminated at the most luxurious tented accommodations of the entire trip, located right on the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve. This camp offered a blend of romance and luxury, with the most modern comforts set against a backdrop of classic safari vibes.

One of the highlights of my stay here was the hot air balloon ride at dawn. Floating over the emerald green plains, I could see the silhouette of elephants below me. The stillness of the morning, the quiet movement of the wildlife. It was pure magic. Later in the day, we crossed into Tanzania by vehicle, for only about 10 minutes! It was a fascinating experience to step into a new country.

The Maasai Mara is part of the Greater Mara ecosystem, a vital conservation landscape. It's home to incredible wildlife, including the annual Great Migration, and staying in this region felt like being part of something much larger than myself. I was reminded of the delicate balance of nature and how crucial it is to protect these places.

A Trip to Remember

As I reflect on this journey through Kenya, I’m filled with deep gratitude and a renewed sense of wonder. The beauty of the land, the passion of the people, and the conservation efforts that are changing the course of wildlife history have made an indelible mark on my soul.

This trip wasn’t just about seeing the animals. I t was about connection. Connection to nature, to the history and culture of Kenya, and to the incredible people working tirelessly to protect the land and its creatures. Kenya is not just a destination; it’s a living, breathing experience that touches your heart and soul.

Whether you're a couple looking to reconnect, a solo traveler seeking adventure with comfort, or a family wanting to share something truly extraordinary, Kenya offers it all. It’s a place where memories are made, hearts are touched, and connections are formed.

I’m planning a hosted trip back to Africa next year. If you’re curious or longing for an adventure like this, I’d love to share more when the time comes. No pressure at all, just a chance to daydream about your own Kenyan adventure.

Thank you for allowing me to share a little piece of Kenya with you. If you have any questions or want to learn more, I’m always happy to chat. Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.

To find out more, check out my home page here.

Reach out today at erin@cultivatingconnectionstravelplanners.com

Or you can just give me a call at 405.310.7588

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