Destination Debrief: Kenya & My Safari Experience
A cheetah, shot on Canon in the Maasai Mara with Ishara Mara while on a Kenya 2-week itinerary.
A Two-Week Journey Of Wildlife, Culture, and Unforgettable Moments
Kenya is special. From the stillness before sunrise, to the way wildlife moves without urgency, and the feeling that you’re being welcomed into something ancient and ongoing, this East African country has a way of capturing your heart.
I recently spent two weeks in Kenya with my husband and my in-laws, who were celebrating their retirement. It was a trip filled with world-class safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and special moments I’ll carry with me forever. As a hobbyist wildlife photographer, Kenya exceeded expectations.
This journey took us from the wide-open landscapes of Laikipia to the iconic plains of the Maasai Mara, offering two complementary safari experiences. Our time on safari was exploratory, with a deep connection to the land and the thrill of the chase over the endless plains. Beyond the animal encounters, we were welcomed by the local people and had incredibly meaningful cultural experiences.
Route: Nairobi (Hemingways) → Amboseli → Loisaba Conservancy (Loisaba Tented Camp, Elewana) → Mara South Conservancy → Maasai Mara (Ishara Mara)
A mother lion watching over her cub at Loisaba Conservancy, one of the best safari spots in Kenya.
The Safari Experience: Animal Encounters in Kenya
Let’s start with the reason most people go to Kenya.
The safaris.
Kenya is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa, offering optimal wildlife viewing and some of the most iconic landscapes on the continent. From the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park to the grandness of the Maasai Mara, every day brings the possibility of something extraordinary.
You’ve probably already seen some of Kenya’s iconic nature thanks to the countless wildlife documentaries that have been filmed there. If you’ve watched Planet Earth, National Geographic, or Disney Nature, you’ve likely witnessed unforgettable wildlife encounters that are happening in Kenya. Being there in person feels like stepping into the screen.
Kenya is a destination that delivers world-class safaris, whether it’s your first time or your fifth.
The Maasai Mara, an area of preserved savannah wilderness in southwest Kenya, is home to an incredibly diverse natural ecosystem, home to the Big 5 and lesser-known animals.
Giraffes on the open plains of the Maasai Mara
The Animals You Can Expect To See In Kenya:
One of the reasons Kenya works so well for safari travel is the sheer variety of wildlife. Depending on where you go, you may encounter:
Lions
Leopards
Elephants
Giraffe
Buffalo
Rhinos
Cheetahs
Zebras
Hippos
Crocodiles
Countless species of birds - including flamingos!
Of course, many travelers come hoping to spot the Big Five, but Kenya’s magic is also found in the quieter sightings: a herd of thompson gazelle moving slowly through golden grass, a Martial Eagle scanning for prey in the wetlands, or giraffes silhouetted against the horizon.
If you want more practical safari travel advice before you go, check out my other article with tips for what to expect on safari.
Special Animal Encounters
A trip to Kenya offers the unique opportunity to get up close with wildlife. At Telos Travel, we thoughtfully design itineraries that may include behind-the-scenes conservation visits, expert-led encounters, and immersive experiences that go beyond a traditional game drive.
Every animal experience we recommend is thoroughly vetted to ensure ethical treatment and responsible conservation practices. They are opportunities to learn, support critical conservation work, and engage with organizations protecting Kenya’s extraordinary ecosystems.
Special Animal Encounter: Feeding Giraffes At The Nairobi Giraffe Sanctuary
One memorable animal experience came at the beginning of our trip when we visited the Nairobi Giraffe Sanctuary.
Feeding giraffes up close is lots of fun, and it’s also a reminder of the important conservation work happening throughout Kenya.
I recommend visiting early in the morning, as it becomes very popular with school groups later in the day.
Special Animal Encounter: Meeting Baby Elephants At The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Another favorite for first-time visitors to Kenya is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage.
Meeting baby elephants, watching them play, and learning about the organization’s mission is incredibly moving. The work they do for rescue and rehabilitation is fascinating. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust takes the job of rehabilitating elephants seriously and limits public visits to ensure the elephants do not become habituated to humans and can be successfully released into the wild.
Special Animal Encounter: Riding Camels Through The African Bush
A game drive isn’t the only way to experience a safari. While many private concessions offer walking safaris, a more unique experience we had was riding camels through the African bush.
Camels are a crucial part of life in northern Kenya. They serve as transportation through the arid region and also produce nutrient-rich milk that supports local communities.
As an added treat, we got to try camel ice cream. A creamy and surprisingly delicious dessert that felt like such a unique cultural touch.
Our host at Ishara, Julius - one of the kindest and most interesting people we met on our trip. Luxury camps in Kenya have the best hosts and guides that will elevate your experience.
More Than Wildlife: The People of Kenya
Everyone is interested in Africa for the animals, but I find the reason I keep returning to this part of the world is for the people.
Don’t get me wrong, the animal encounters are unforgettable and definitely a trip highlight, but the people you meet will make your trip.
Kenyans live wildly different lifestyles from those of our own. Locals are eager to share their culture and learn about your life, too. It’s humbling and fascinating to meet people who are so giving when they have so little. It always leaves my heart really full.
The warmth, the generosity, the way people want to chat and truly connect, it’s what stays with you long after you leave.
Sending my clients to Africa is one of my favorite ways to expose people to different cultures, ways of life, and perspectives that can genuinely shift how you see the world.
Sleep under the night sky at Ishara Mara’s star bed, complete with heated blanket, and wake to sunrise breakfast in bed.
The Accommodations: Where We Stayed In Kenya
As a travel advisor, something I like about Kenya is that there are so many different accommodation styles to match every traveler. From upscale rustic to full-on luxury camps, your stay in Kenya will always have sweeping views, incredible services, and a mix of on-site amenities to make your stay pleasant.
Hemingways | Nairobi
Our trip, like most Kenya trips, started in Nairobi. Hemingways Nairobi was easy to reach from the airport and in a central location, making it a perfect place to begin the journey and settle in before heading out on safari. Hemingways is located in the upscale neighborhood of Karen, which is centrally located to many of the sites you’ll want to visit during your time in Nairobi.
The stunning Mt Kilimanjaro geographically sits in Tanzania, but the best views are actually from Kenya!
Private Concessions | Amboseli
The winning feature of visiting Amboseli National Park is the impressive views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Game drives here mean your animal photos will have Kilimanjaro as the backdrop and look like a postcard.
That said, the national park itself can feel busy, so for travelers wanting a quieter experience, I recommend staying on a private concession within the Amboseli region. This way, you are close enough to the national park to explore, but you can also escape the crowds and enjoy up close and personal wildlife encounters in your concession. Imagine waking up in the morning and being greeted by an impala at your front door.
Amboseli is also one of the only places in the world where you might get to see a Super Tusker elephant! With tusks that can weigh over 100 lbs, these rare giant creatures are slowly disappearing. Sightings are never guaranteed (that’s part of the excitement of safari), and during our stay, we just missed one moving through a distant section of the park. Others were reported nearby in different concessions that we couldn’t access. It’s luck of the draw, and an incredible honor if you do get to see a Super Tusker in person.
In 2024, Loisaba reintroduced black and white rhinos to the conservancy. They now have 21 black rhinos and 11 white rhinos (shown above) who have been documented successfully breeding. A major success! The black rhinos are still a challenge to see with their skittish personalities, but we were lucky enough to sit with one for about an hour.
Loisaba Tented Camp | Loisaba Conservancy
Loisaba is vast, untamed, and dramatically beautiful. Loisaba Tented Camp is a top-tier luxury accommodation offering elevated service, immersive conservation experiences, outstanding food, and incredible views. There is a strong wow factor from the moment of arrival. Plus, as part of Virtuoso, you receive all of our exclusive benefits, including a visit with the anti-poaching unit.
Some highlights here included:
Meeting the anti-poaching team and their dogs
Activities for families, like camel rides, mountain biking, and e-bikes
Incredible night sky viewing thanks to the distance from light pollution
This is the Kenya experience for travelers who want something remote and wild, but still highly luxurious.
Loisaba is also one of the best places to spot the Special Five, a rare collection of wildlife species found exclusively in northern Kenya. During our stay, we were lucky enough to see the reticulated giraffe, recognizable by its liver-colored polygonal patchwork pattern, Grevy’s zebra with its narrow stripes and oversized “Mickey Mouse” ears, and the long-necked gerenuk antelope balancing gracefully on its hind legs to browse its surroundings. We also spotted a Beisa oryx in the distance, its long, straight horns striking against the arid landscape. The only one we missed was the Somali Ostrich.
The magic of safari - our guide Kyle (Ishara) scanning for animals while I enjoy our sundowner in the presence of a lounging cheetah, and of course snapping photos.
Ishara Mara | Mara
For budding wildlife photographers, Ishara Mara is the place for you. Ishara had the best guides, the most diverse wildlife viewing, and a luxury experience that made it a standout of our trip.
Something that makes Ishara so unique is its partnership with Canon cameras. Guests have access to professional camera equipment during their stay, and the on-site photography team is happy to give lessons, join game drives for hands-on guidance, or even coordinate a family photo session. They will print and package your favorite images to take home. It’s an incredible opportunity for kids experimenting with photography, beginners wanting to improve, or seasoned photographers looking to elevate their craft.
I would absolutely recommend spending at least four nights here. The camp is beautiful, the animal sightings are unmatched, and the staff is so kind that you’ll want enough time to relax and enjoy it all.
Beyond the wildlife and photography, Ishara also offers a world-class spa. After early mornings and bumpy game drives, it is nice to have a place, on-site, to unwind.
What stayed with me most, though, were the people. We walked away feeling like family. The connections we made with the staff were genuine and meaningful. Our Maasai guide, Kyle, was outstanding. He was an animated storyteller who perfectly balanced facts, conversation, and adventurous anecdotes. He was an expert tracker and always lined me up for the best photographs. And then there was Julius, who became so much more than just our waiter and host at Ishara. His genuine kindness and the thoughtful conversations we had made our trip so memorable. We may live thousands of miles apart, but the beauty of travel is finding the similarities in those you interact with.
I am already longing to return, and I do not say that lightly as someone who loves exploring new destinations.
I would go back in a heartbeat.
A Special Moment I’ll Never Forget
On our final night at Ishara Mara, we were treated to a farewell surprise. The camp knew that my in-laws were celebrating their retirement, so at our final sundowner, the local Maasai men performed a special song, and their elders gave a blessing. They presented my mother-in-law with a beautiful beaded necklace and my father-in-law with a Maasai hand-carved staff.
In Maasai culture, the staff is given to men in place of their spear when they graduate as warriors and earn elder status. It is a huge honor.
This moment was completely unexpected, deeply moving, and a reminder of how thoughtful travel can be when it’s planned with care.
These are the moments you can’t recreate.
Welcome mimosas as we arrived to our bush breakfast in Loisaba. Safari does not mean you are roughing it for meal time!
Food In Kenya: What Is The Food Like?
Nairobi has a growing food scene, with excellent fusion restaurants that pay tribute to Kenya’s strong ties to India. I highly recommend dinner at Talisman in the Karen neighborhood. (Hemingways is happy to arrange a taxi for you!)
The good food will continue as part of the safari experience.
You’ll become a morning person on safari, since sunrise is one of the best times for animal sightings. After an early game drive, you may enjoy a bush breakfast, where, even in the wild, you’ll get eggs to order and a welcome mimosa.
And then there are sundowners. The end-of-day happy hours with drinks and snacks are a tradition on safari. It’s a chance to reflect on the day, take in the beauty, and get to know your guides.
If you’re worried about how you’ll manage your food allergies in a foreign country, the luxury accommodations we stayed at handle dietary restrictions incredibly well. My husband has a severe peanut allergy, and my mother-in-law has a gluten allergy. Loisaba Tented Camp went above and beyond to ensure meals were allergy-safe, including creating different gluten-free bread options at every meal, and all nuts were removed from camp for the duration of our stay to ensure that we felt comfortable.
Is Kenya Safe To Visit?
At Telos Travel, we take the safety of our travelers very seriously, but we also know that the media often portrays destinations that are different as unsafe.
The reality is that Kenya is a well-established safari destination with strong tourism infrastructure, especially when you travel with expert guidance.
We work with local partners to constantly evaluate the safety of each region. We never leave anything up to chance.
From airport pickups to private transfers between camps, to having in-destination contacts every step of the way, we handle all the logistics so you feel escorted throughout your Kenya trip.
Did you know you can see flamingos in Kenya? Their presence in Amboseli is more recent due to changing water levels in their migratory paths, but they are common in the Rift Valley lakes!
Why Go Now
The best time to visit Kenya is now! These amazing animal encounters are happening right now, and the local people are ready and waiting to welcome you.
Climate change is causing rapid desertification in parts of Kenya, and wildlife patterns may continue to shift over time, so if you have always wanted to see the Big Five or experience the magic of a wild safari, don’t put it off.
Tourism also supports conservation groups working hard to protect these ecosystems and national parks.
The Best Time To Visit Kenya
For optimal wildlife viewing, Kenya’s dry season is typically:
July to October
January to February
The rainy season falls around:
April and May
Dry season often brings the best game viewing conditions, as animals gather near water sources. However, I always recommend traveling during shoulder season if you’re looking for a less crowded experience at lower pricing. Also, the rainy season, while considered low season, is still an option for people wanting to see Kenya in a different way. The lush green landscape and heavy rainfall make animal spotting a little more difficult, but still possible. It’s a great time for people wanting to take advantage of the best pricing.
For more inspiration on why Africa belongs on your list right now, check out my 6 reasons to visit Africa.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Kenya?
I’m a big fan of slow travel when it comes to Africa. Kenya is incredibly diverse, with different landscapes, cultures, and wildlife regions. You want enough time to move around without feeling rushed.
I recommend 10 to 16 days for a well-rounded Kenya itinerary. This allows you the time to combine regions like Amboseli, Laikipia, and the Maasai Mara for contrast and depth.
Elephants in the wetlands of Amboseli National Park
Kenya’s Magic: Let’s Get You To Africa
While this trip was planned as a vacation, we are always doing a bit of work. I wanted to connect with my partners, experience the best camps firsthand, and find the most meaningful experiences for my clients.
Take advantage of my connections and trusted in-destination partners to have a Kenya trip that feels extremely personal and exceeds your expectations.
Safari travel takes some logistics to make happen. The camps are intentionally small to protect the natural world, which means they book up quickly. It’s best to start planning your Kenyan safari about a year in advance if you can, but if you are planning more last-minute, don’t hesitate to reach out to see what we can make happen.
Kenya is a destination I’ll return to again and again. And when you’re ready, I’d love to share its magic with you.
