On the Road: Kenya
By Meredith Fenn
I will never tire of the element of surprise on safari. Each day brings something unimaginable—every moment is loaded with suspense. What’s around that bush, what’s on the horizon, what’s hiding in that tree? The possibilities are endless and Kenya’s spectacular and diverse landscape from the Masai Mara to Amboseli National Park did not disappoint.
Nairobi is a bustling capital full of bold colors and charm. I received a warm welcome accompanied by genuine smiles. The pride the people felt for their country was apparent in every conversation and in their eagerness to share the wonders found within Kenya’s borders.
The Mara Triangle was bursting with wildlife, and crisp morning game drives gave way to warm sunny mornings. Hot breakfast with bubbly was an unexpected treat in the middle of the savannah complete with live entertainment thanks to the curious crown cranes walking past.
Throughout my time exploring the vast plains, my guide's depth of knowledge blew my mind. They were able to spot wildlife from unimaginable distances and through impeccable camouflage. Every animal’s movement and behavior demonstrated had an extensive explanation. I relished being a student and tried to absorb as much as possible.
The majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro is palpable. I first saw her snowcapped peak among the fluffy clouds from my private flight into Amboseli. I loved watching her silhouette change throughout the day. She was shy at times, moody, and brilliant in full form without a cloud in the sky. Watching Craig, the oldest “super tusker” in the world, stroll casually past thorny acacia trees with Kili in the background will be ingrained in my memory forever.
Highlights of my trip include: watching the Maasai warriors perform a ceremonial blessing; Topi’s dancing on the horizon as the sun set; a family of “Ellies” swimming alongside a "flamboyance" of flamingos; wildebeest sparring over their territory; cheeky monkeys using a 200-year-old sausage tree as a playground; and nearly 30 giraffes walking single file—a sight that even perplexed my guide! As for cats, I was fortunate to see a pride of more than 20 lions at sunrise looking for a place to nap after a night of hunting, leopards lounging, and a cheetah corralling her four rambunctious cubs.
See for yourself what makes this pocket of East Africa so special.