As Charles Dickens once wrote, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” That famous line best sums up our first visit to Kenya, though admittedly, with a touch of exaggeration. Our journey was an emotional rollercoaster, filled with unforgettable highs and some challenging lows.
We’re a retired couple from Florida, aged 70 and 65, and this was our tenth self-drive safari. Prior to Kenya, we had just completed five weeks in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, where we enjoyed a Maui Camper Van, hot showers, clean campsites, and relaxed driving conditions. We knew Kenya would be different but we underestimated just how different.
Where We Went
Our itinerary took us through some of Kenya’s most iconic destinations:
- Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Mara Triangle (Mara Conservancy)
- Amboseli National Park
- Tsavo West & Tsavo East National Parks
- Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi
The Highs
Kenya truly delivered when it came to wildlife and landscapes. We experienced spectacular animal encounters, especially with the Big Cats, and were captivated by the diversity of ecosystems. From the open plains of the Mara to the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, Kenya offered raw, untamed beauty that left us in awe.
The Lows
However, some aspects were more challenging than expected:
- Road Conditions: Long, rough transfers between parks made driving exhausting.
- Camping Facilities: Many lacked basics like hot water or clean toilets.
- Equipment: Our vehicle and camping gear fell short of expectations.
- People & Service: Not everyone we met was helpful or hospitable, especially when issues arose.
A Note on Expectations
We came with a fair amount of experience, having done two self-drive trips in Tanzania, but Kenya posed unique challenges for self-drivers. This isn’t to discourage you, but rather to highlight how important it is to prepare for a more rugged experience.
Of course, travel is personal. What frustrated us might not bother another traveler. We share this perspective with the understanding that every journey is subjective, shaped by individual expectations and experiences.
Kenya is breathtaking, wild, and undeniably worth visiting, but it’s not for the faint-hearted, especially if you plan to go the self-drive route. In our upcoming posts, we’ll dive into detailed reviews of the campsites, accommodations, parks, and our Land Cruiser experience, plus offer practical tips for those planning their own adventure.
