As my SafariLink plane descended into the Mara, I was struck by two things: the vibrant green landscape, which reminded me of Ireland rather than the usual dry savannah of Kenya, and the puddles of water and mud reflecting the sky. The El Niño rains had been relentless, continuing since the short rains, and I couldn’t help but wonder how it might affect my safari experience. Would the rain impact the wildlife sightings? I was about to find out.
Upon landing, I was greeted by Twala, my trusted guide from last year at Kicheche Valley. It felt like a reunion with an old friend as we caught up on family, pets, and work. He was excited to share his wealth of knowledge, especially when it came to the big cats – a safari experience I could never get enough of.
A Stay at Valley Camp:
Although I was disappointed that Minnie, the excellent manager at Kicheche Valley, was on a two-week break, I quickly realized that her team was just as capable, and the camp felt just like home. A few upgrades, including new ceiling fans and sinks in the tents, made Valley Camp even more comfortable than before, but the charm and warmth of the place remained unchanged.
Big Cat Sightings:
One of the highlights of my stay was tracking two cheetah moms, each with four young cubs, who were roaming between Naboisho and the neighboring Olare Motorogi Conservancy. Over three days, I spent hours watching Nashipae and her cubs, capturing some of the best photos I’ve ever taken. The thrill of seeing a mother leopard with her cubs was another unforgettable moment, not to mention the solo leopard sighting high up in a tree. Twala knew the perfect spots to position us for the best views, enhancing my safari experience.
A Lion Cubs Discovery:
One morning, as we drove past three giraffes feeding by the road, I noticed how curious they seemed about us. Twala, however, knew better. He shut off the engine, and I immediately heard the unmistakable sound of lion cubs mewing. With excitement, I shouted, “LION CUBS!” and Twala chuckled knowingly. Less than 50 feet away, hidden in the bushes, were two lionesses and three tiny cubs. The scene was magical. We were the only vehicle there, and I made sure to keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the cubs. When other vehicles arrived, we moved away to ensure the cubs weren’t spooked.
Ilksiausiau Pride:
Another remarkable sighting was with the Ilksiausiau pride, a group of over 20 lions. While the pride had been larger last year, some members had split off to a neighboring conservancy. Still, it was an amazing experience to be surrounded by so many lions. The guides and rangers ensured that everyone had a fair chance to view the animals without overcrowding, and the experience felt humane, not rushed or chaotic.
Navigating the Mara Mud:
While I managed to avoid the rain, the Mara mud was a real challenge. On several occasions, we helped pull vehicles out of the mud, and we even got stuck ourselves – but thankfully, we were able to free ourselves. It was a reminder of how the Mara’s beauty can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Despite the challenging conditions, the safari experience was exceptional, and the wildlife sightings were well worth the effort.
The Crystal Tours Kenya Difference:
Looking back at my safari, I realized how much easier and more enjoyable the entire experience was thanks to the expert guidance of Crystal Tours Kenya. From organizing seamless transfers to ensuring every detail of the trip was tailored to my needs, they made sure I had the best possible time. Their local expertise and attention to detail allowed me to focus entirely on the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Whether you’re planning your first safari or returning for another unforgettable adventure, Crystal Tours Kenya is the perfect partner for a trip like this. Their knowledge of the region, commitment to sustainability, and customer-focused service will ensure your safari is everything you’ve dreamed of – and more.
Conclusion:
As I reflect on my time in Naboisho Conservancy, I’m already looking forward to my next safari with Crystal Tours Kenya in February 2025. If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Mara firsthand, I highly recommend booking your safari through Crystal Tours Kenya. Their expert guides, seamless service, and commitment to providing an authentic African safari experience will make your trip unforgettable.
Ready for your own Mara adventure? Contact Crystal Tours Kenya today and let them help you create your own extraordinary safari experience!