Blog: Safari from a first timer’s point of view

Capturing the spirit of adventure that Africa is famous, our Marketing Executive Suzie recounts her first time on safari in Kenya’s famous Mara Reserve. Read how Suzie caught the safari bug…

Why we love the Kenyan coast

Safari and beach is a winning holiday combination and as the home of the big five safari, Kenya is a leading light. Increasingly after a safari on the Kenyan plains we look to more exotic climes such as the Seychelles, Zanzibar and Mozambique for our beach R&R. Here our Kenya specialists say why we should stay closer to home and stick to the Kenyan coast for beautiful beaches and top watersports.

Kenya and Zanzibar

Combining the wildlife rich plains of Kenya with its own palm flanked coastline or the shores of Zanzibar makes for a truly unforgettable safari and beach holiday. Offering wildlife encounters and ultimate relaxation in equal measure, this tried and tested combination promises the best of both in eastern Africa.

Family favourites

A safari holiday with the family has adventure at its core, and there are few better places to explore with children in tow than the home of safari itself, Kenya. From spotting the Big Five in the Masai Mara and camel riding in Laikipia to enjoying some down time on its tropical beaches, Kenya is a brilliantly varied destination; perfect for a family getaway.

Day in the life of a safari guide

With over a decade of experience, Mara guide William Ole Santian has to be one of the most knowledgeable, friendly and welcoming guides we have come across on safari. He tells us what it is like to be a safari guide in the Masai Mara.

If William’s tales inspire you to explore the Masai Mara yourself then call our Kenya specialists on 020 3141 2810 to tailor-make your very own trip.

For me, the Masai Mara is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. For a wildlife experience it is number one – there is no better place to be – it is paradise for game-viewing. The density of game is great, and the open plains are amazing. It is full of lions, my favourite animal. They are not too different to other cats – they are very social and look very similar to each other. However if you look a bit closer they are very different individually – you can identify lions by their whisker spot patterns.

One of my most exciting animal encounters was seeing a pangolin (a scaly anteater) being rolled like a ball by a group of lions. Amazingly it survived! For our guests, an average day usually starts with an early morning game drive, with a stop for a picnic breakfast, then back to lodge for lunch and a well-earnt rest. Do another game drive in the afternoon combined with a refreshing sundowner, and then back to the lodge for more drinks around the campfire and dinner.

While my guests relax, I am always busy behind the scenes making sure my vehicle is maintained and that the cool box is always fully stocked. It might sound like a routine, but the best part of my job is that every day is different. Every day on safari is unique and you are never certain what you will see, no matter how long you have been a guide. The Mara is a wonderful office. I also love learning all the differences between my Maasai culture and the western culture of my clients. I get to know each of them individually as they have the same guide for the duration of their stay. Some even add me on Facebook afterwards so I have many friends around the world!

William is the manager at Saruni Wild and can be requested as a guide for guests staying here at an additional cost and subject to availability.