Masai Mara, Kenya
My two trips to Africa have been my favorite trips so far. It is such a magical place, with more stars in the sky than I've seen anywhere else, the most luxurious camps (think glamping, to the extreme!), the best hospitality, and, of course, the coolest animals. Last year, Kevin and I made an impromptu trip to Kenya and Uganda after I happened upon a great deal on business class flights to Nairobi (thanks for what was probably a mistake fare, Delta). We decided to splurge, as we were celebrating our recent marriage.
Our first stop was andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Camp in Masai Mara, Kenya. Let me tell you, this lodge was something to write home about!
Upon landing at Kichwa Tembo's airstrip (in a tiny, 12-seater plane), we were met by our private guide and offered refreshing, cool towels, tea, and snacks. We were then escorted in a private jeep about 15-minutes to the camp.
On our way to our tent, Kevin met the resident warthog. Apparently he is a camp staple!
In between morning and afternoon game drives, I was here, cooling off at the pool. It was so serene, and had great views of the surrounding mara. I could see all kinds of antelopes, zebras, giraffes, and big cats right from here!
Enjoying a Tusker, the local beer.
Every morning, we were awoken before sunrise, with coffee and cookies at our door, for our morning game drive. We'd then walk past this view on the way to meet our guide.
We explored with him for hours, searching for our favorite animals. Like elephants, big and small, which weren't hard to find.
And the more elusive cheetah.
But our all time favorite was the lions!
We got so lucky to see three moms and seven babies. They walked right past our jeep (check out the video below)!
When we got hungry, we'd stop in the middle of the mara (maybe under a tree for some shade?) for breakfast. Eggs, fruit, coffee, tea, you name it!
Happy and full.
We also took sunset game drives, and met the well camoflauged leopard.
After our game drives, relaxing by the pool, and the occasional nap, we would enjoy dinner here. On our last night, andBeyond set up a special dinner for us under the lights of this tree.
It was really tough to say goodbye to this beautiful place and the wonderful people who work here!
For those who want more, here is a video tour of our luxury tent at the camp.
And finally, all the lions walking right past our jeep!
