KENYA 2018 - I AM IN LOVE WITH AFRICA EVEN MORE

Paulina
May 20, 2018
6 min read

From the minute I put my foot first time in Africa, I didn´t realise that it is going to be so remarkable. It was 2 years ago. This year, with a bunch of friends we were able to breath Kenyan air approx. for the whole two weeks. It was memorable time with lots of animals, nice people, extraordinary nature, just beautiful surroundings. And without a doubt I can say that I want to explore more of this landmine.

Our journey to Kenya began with a lot of planning as there were 9 people in our group. I get very exciting planning the trip, pay attention to detail, counting money, organize places to stay and visit, basically have a good time etc. My husband is actually very good in finding good places to stay, as he follows many vloggers. Step by step we had a fantastic plan with half time to spend in Safari and jungle, and another week by the magical Indian ocean.

After a long flight Oslo-Stambul-Nairobi we have reached our destination @ 2:00a.m. We have been advised to stay at the airport until 5:00a.m. Our Safari driver Erick Seroney told us that it is not allowed and not safe to begin the trip at night. The airport at Nairobi was not very big, everybody were very excited so not long after waiting we were on the way to our adventure with our driver for 4 days.

Our first destination was Kilima Safari Camp Hotel right by the Amboseli National Park. This Park was near Kilimajaro mountain, nearly 4 hours trip with Safari vehicle from Nairobi. It was worth every single minute to visit this place. We have chosen to travel at the low season. It normally rains a lot so most of the parks are not very reachable. On the way to the hotel we have seen giraffes just passing our way. That made us even more excited about upcoming Safari day. The most popular Safari in Kenya is `Maasai Mara Park` however we were trying to see more than 100 % during those days as we didn''t have that much time. We have chosen `Amboseli National Park` purely because of a mountain. Just in one day we were able to see so many animals: giraffes, elephants, antelopes, hyenas, zebras, gazelles, wild pigs, various birds. Evening Safari was the whole new surprise for us. Just before the park was closing down we stopped just to see the family of lions sleeping. Lion cubs were playing around their sleepy parents. We were watching them for nearly hour when suddenly a striking view appeared from in between the clouds - it was Kilimanjaro mountain. So huge, so amazing and majestic. My heart has nearly melted. It was one of the best feelings in my life. It couldn't be more fantastic - love nature.

That day has left a big mark in my life. It makes me smile remembering it all.

After this day we had a nice dinner at the `Kilima Safari Camp` where we were staying. I can highly recommend this place - right by the Safari Park, with lots of monkeys running around just by your room, extraordinary accommodation and stunning view from the top of the restaurant roof.

Next day we were able to visit Maasai Village. They were so welcome: with their traditional jumping dance, stories about the village life. There were women dancing and men separate from them. We were dancing with them all, it was so fun and interesting. We had a little tour afterwards, locals showed us how they make fire, how they live, what kind of books kids have/read, what kind of school uniforms kids wear. Maasai houses are built from cows manure. It makes warm inside when it is cloudy, and cold inside when it is sunny. After presentation we had a chance to give some sweets to the kids, to take some photos and to buy some souvenirs they make by themselves. This place normally holds a big festival for Maasai people at this time of year. They have lots of ceremonies and rituals however this time (to my knowledge) locals were preparing for the Enkipaata (senior boy ceremony). Also, there should be ceremonies for boys and girls minor including, Eudoto/Enkigerunoto oo-inkiyiaa (earlobe), and Ilkipirat (leg fire marks). Traditionally, boys and girls must undergo through these initiations for minors prior to circumcision.

So yes, they live just a little bit different than us and its so interesting to find out all about daily life here.

We left this place with lots of emotions and great memories. Many thanks to our driver and guide Erick Seroney. Back from Nairobi (where we've stayed for one night in the middle of the city) we flew to Mombasa, a bit closer to the ocean. Just wanted to mention that in Nairobi it is not very safe for tourists. You just can´t pass the street without someone suggesting to buy something or offering to visit local shops. Despite this we had a lovely dinner in the restaurant named CJ´s. We also had a surprise at the Mombasa Airport - one of our best friends joined our gang so holiday became even more exciting.

One day before beach life we've stayed at another absolutely indescribable place `Shimba Hills Lodge`. It is right in the jungle at the National Reserve. Because of the rain travelling there was rather extreme, but final destination was reached and all the inconveniences were forgotten. There are no words to describe this place, wildlife has taken my breath away. Everything there was just the top level: amazing interior, many sounds of various fauna, stunning nature, delicious food, helpful staff, very polite and easy-going owner. African bush babies decided to join us while we were eating. We've also seen big lizards, squirrels and wild cats. Staff was very well prepared that we could be surprised by this incredible wildlife. We also had a bush walk with a professional ranger.

I was very sad that we've decided to stay there for one night only. The place was definitely worth a visit. I have never ever been in a so unusual, professional and so well organized place. Next day when we had to leave, the way out from the jungle was not the best due to lots of rain. Staff helped us to carry our luggages to the driver. African people are full of surprises, they carried our very heavy bags on their heads :)

After 5 days our jungle life was changed to beach life. We have stayed at ´Tequila Sunrise Villa´ right on the Diani Beach for the rest of the holiday. Despite the fact that we had rather rainy days, the time there was amazing. We had our own Chef who prepared us wonderful food everyday: from tasty breakfast with lots of fruits to even more delicious dinner with lots of various seafood. We had a chance to go shopping with the chef and learned so much about vegetables and fruits. There were some items at the market that I have never ever seen before in my life :)

Everyday was spent with lots of laughter, full of fun. Its so calm and magical by the beach. I can definitely say that Indian ocean is my favourite so far. I am never ever bored of it. The waves were so huge, we had lots of joy in the water including jet-skis.

We had a chance to ride a camel right on the beach and of course `friendly monkeys` steeling all leftovers from the tables, especially fruits. We needed to close all the doors at all times. We had 3 Maasai guards who took care of us but sometimes monkeys were too fast :)

Last evening we visited very cozy restaurant/bar just by the Diani beach named `Forty Thieves`. The floors of the restaurant was simply sand and the view to the ocean with many crabs - perfect last night out. It was the night to remember with extreme driving: 5 guys in one small tuk-tuk (local taxi vehicle) on the way to the restaurant and on the way back crazy taxi driver with even more crazy local music :)

Yes, this holiday was extraordinary and pleasant - more than I've expected. That´s how I fell in love with Africa one more time. I hope to have more of those times in the future. I think to be able to explore the world is the biggest gift in my life. Thanks to my husband that he is a part of it and makes it even more memorable. Can´t wait to explore more and more, wonder what does the future holds for us next...

>P.P.

"More I see, more I smile.." Safari guide: ´Sixty Four Tours & Safaris´- ERICK SERENOY FB link: https://www.facebook.com/Sixty-Four-Tours-Safaris-209869279072300/