East Africa Safari Kenya and Tanzania

Riaan Beekman’s East Africa Safari Kenya and Tanzania

As someone passionate about crafting unforgettable safari experiences, I believe in personally exploring the destinations and properties we recommend to our clients. It’s important to me that every lodge, camp, and park we suggest aligns with the exceptional experiences you deserve. That’s why, earlier this year, I set off on a journey through Kenya and Tanzania to visit some incredible properties and get a firsthand feel for what makes them special.

This journey not only deepened my appreciation for the diversity and beauty of East Africa but also reaffirmed why these two countries are bucket-list destinations. 

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Join me as I take you through the highlights of my recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania.

My journey began at Ololo Lodge, a hidden gem on the southern border of Nairobi National Park. Just 45 minutes from Nairobi, Ololo feels like a world away, offering stunning views into the park and wildlife like buffalo and zebra right on its doorstep.

Set on a 20-acre regenerative farm, the lodge serves delicious “paddock-to-plate” meals and offers unique accommodations, from converted stables to tented cottages. Guests can unwind by the pool, explore the park on safari, or simply enjoy the tranquil gardens.

What truly stood out was Ololo’s warm hospitality and seamless blend of sustainability and comfort. Watching the sun set over the park, drink in hand, was the perfect way to start this unforgettable journey.

The next stop on my itinerary was Tawi Lodge, nestled in its own private conservancy within the Amboseli ecosystem. After flying from Wilson Airport in Nairobi, I arrived at this idyllic retreat at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tawi Lodge perfectly blends comfort and East African hospitality, with rustic cottages offering incredible views of Kilimanjaro. Watching elephants pass by from my private deck was a truly magical experience.

Amboseli National Park, known for its vast elephant herds, delivered unforgettable game-viewing, with lions, cheetahs, zebras, and vibrant birdlife thriving against the iconic backdrop of Kilimanjaro.

Tawi Lodge and Amboseli left me with a profound sense of peace and connection to the beauty of the wild. It’s a place where time slows down, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

The next day, we paused at Katambuga House in Arusha. Surrounded by coffee estates and lush gardens, it’s a peaceful oasis just minutes from Arusha Airport.

With Mount Meru dominating the skyline, this serene retreat is perfect for unwinding before or after a safari. The airy rooms, adorned with local art, open onto verandas overlooking the gardens. It’s also a great starting point for exploring Arusha’s cultural heritage or the surrounding countryside.

After lunch at the tranquil Katambuga House in Arusha, I flew with Excel Air to Serian’s Lamai in the Serengeti. This intimate camp is perfectly positioned in the Lamai Wedge, offering front-row seats to one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the wildebeest river crossings.

The open plains here are teeming with wildlife, from cheetahs and lions to massive herds of wildebeest, zebra, and topi. With just 10 tents, the camp offers seclusion and a sense of exclusivity. The rolling savannah and boulder-strewn hillsides feel straight out of Out of Africa, providing an ideal base for exploration and unforgettable game viewing.

Next, I flew to the Masaai Mara Reserve and made my way to Speke’s Camp, nestled along the Olare Orok River on the reserve’s edge. This traditional safari camp, with its spacious tents and high level of service, strikes the perfect balance between comfort and authenticity.

The Mara’s abundant wildlife is just a short drive away, but the camp’s privacy and tranquil setting make it feel like your own little corner of paradise. Sundowners, picnics, and bush breakfasts add to the charm of exploring this world-famous reserve.

A Lunch Visit to Serian Nkorombo
While staying at Speke’s Camp, I visited Serian Nkorombo for lunch. This camp, set beside the Mara River, offers a more adventurous safari style with stunning riverbank views. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking an immersive and raw experience of the Maasai Mara.

From there, I moved to the Serian Original, connected to its sister camp, Ngare Serian, by a suspension bridge over the river. This bridge isn’t just for guests—lion prides from opposite sides have learned to use it, leading to the occasional standoff mid-bridge!

Serian Original provides a classic safari experience with the right mix of comfort and adventure. The setting, combined with the rich stories that unfold daily, makes it a truly unique destination.

The journey continued with a flight to Nairobi and a drive to Laikipia, where I stayed overnight at Rocky Hollow Lodge. The owners are two fascinating people, and it took them eight years to build this magnificent property. This peaceful setting provided a perfect transition to the next part of the itinerary.

The next day, I traveled to Enasoit Camp, a private wildlife reserve and luxury tented camp at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The property’s charm is rooted in its rich history and deep connection to Kenya’s wilderness, nurtured by a Scandinavian family over three decades. The lodge is booked for exclusive use, making it an ideal destination for multigenerational families. 

Enasoit offers an unparalleled sense of home and exclusivity. Its lush setting and thriving wildlife create a serene and magical environment. The bond between humans and nature is celebrated and protected, making it a standout stop on this journey.

After leaving Enasoit, I flew to Kitich Camp, a sanctuary nestled in the lush forest of the Mathews Range. My afternoon here was pure bliss. We hiked through the forest, swam in rock pools, lounged in a hammock, and soaked in the tranquil beauty.

Kitich offers an ideal retreat for those looking to recharge in nature. Whether hiking through the forest, swimming in waterfalls, or simply relaxing with a good book, this camp is perfect for unwinding while surrounded by the pristine wilderness of Northern Kenya.

The next day, I embarked on a two-day walk through the ancient forests of the Mathews Range, guided by an expert Samburu tracker and accompanied by an armed ranger. We hired donkeys from the local chief to carry some of our belongings. Walking these ancient elephant trails is a deeply immersive experience, allowing you to truly connect with the environment. The highlight of this hike was our cultural experience when we met Sambura herders on the walk and overnight in a fly camp.

The forest is alive with over 350 bird species, rare butterflies, ancient cycads, and wildlife like elephants, leopards, and even the elusive De Brazza monkeys. We overnight at Boulder Camp, a simple fly camp where the rustic charm of sleeping under the stars perfectly complemented the day’s adventures.

From the Mathews Range, I made my way to Olepangi Farm, a boutique lodge at the foothills of Mount Kenya. This enchanting farm stay blends the magic of African safari with the charm of rural luxury.

At Olepangi, every moment feels extraordinary—riding through meadows on horseback, savoring farm-to-table dining, or simply soaking in the serenity of the Laikipia wilderness. It’s an intimate and unforgettable way to end a safari, offering a chance to reflect on the journey while immersed in nature.

My last night in Kenya was at the charming owner-run Manzili House in Nairobi. This serene haven is the perfect retreat after an adventurous journey. With its inviting pool, lush gardens, and homely atmosphere, it offers a tranquil space to unwind and reflect. Dinner was an intimate and delightful affair, a wonderful way to cap off an unforgettable trip through Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture.

Africa always leaves a mark on your soul—and I’d love to help you experience that for yourself. Read more about our destinations. East Africa Safari Kenya and Tanzania.

Warm regards,

Riaan Beekman
African Aerial Safaris