Off the beaten track in Kenya
Octavia Bolitho, Destination Expert
Growing up listening to my father talking about his time in Kenya with the army, it has always been at the top of my list of countries to visit. I was not to be disappointed as the trip far exceeded my expectations.
The trip began in Meru - my first experience of Kenya and its amazing scenery. Blending seamlessly into the landscape, Elsa’s Kopje was a breathtaking place to spend our first night. Looking out over the Meru plains onto the site of George and Joy Adamson’s old bush camp I felt like I was truly in Africa.
The more northern part of Kenya may not have the famous reputation the Masai Mara has for game viewing yet it has so much to offer. We saw everything, from lions and their cubs climbing trees to the ‘Samburu Special Five’ - Grevy Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk and Somali Ostrich.
As we landed in Ol Pejeta, our guide asked what we wanted to see whilst we were there, to which we immediately cried “Cheetahs!” Less than fifteen minutes into our game drive into camp, our wish was granted - snoozing in the shade we saw not one but three cheetahs.
What I really loved about my trip was that we were given the opportunity not only to see a vast range of game, but also to experience the cultural side of Kenya. It was a nice combination with the game drives and walks, and meant that we really got to see all sides of this amazing country.
The visit to a school whilst staying at Saruni Samburu was a highlight of our trip, and our truly fantastic guide, Chris, gave us a fascinating insight into life as a Samburu.
The evening ended with a bush dinner and then dancing Samburu style. I am not quite sure we grasped the dancing and certainly couldn’t manage to jump even close to as high but we loved every second of it and will remember it for years to come.
With fabulous game viewing, wonderful people, and such incredible experiences, it is only a matter of time before Kenya lures me back!
