Kenya Safari Journal: Highlights from Our September Small Hosted Group Journey
By Kylan Falk, Managing Director
Group travel is unique because it brings like-minded travellers together to experience a destination. At Civilized Adventures, we have been curating and hosting small group journeys to some of the world’s most extraordinary places for more than 30 years, and I recently had the privilege of hosting a wonderful group of 15 guests on safari in Kenya.
Over two unforgettable weeks, we explored some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife regions, witnessed remarkable animal encounters, celebrated special milestones, and shared experiences that will be remembered long after the journey ended.
Beginning Our Journey in Nairobi
Our adventure began in Nairobi, where guests settled into a charming boutique hotel before we started exploring.
One of our first experiences was a visit to the renowned Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where we learned about the incredible conservation work being done to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants. We also visited the Giraffe Centre, enjoyed a local lunch, and explored the historic Karen Blixen Museum.
That evening, we gathered for a hosted cocktail reception, allowing everyone to get acquainted before heading into the bush. It is always fun watching the group come together before the safari even begins. By the end of the trip, many guests who arrived as strangers were travelling as friends.
Amboseli and the Giants of Africa
The following morning, we were wheels up on a private charter flight, one of the many advantages of travelling in a small, hosted group. Our destination was Amboseli National Park.
Some of the first animals to greet us were a huge flock of flamingos gathered around a lake with Mount Kilimanjaro rising in the background. It was a spectacular welcome and exactly the type of scene people dream about when imagining Africa.
Amboseli is famous for its elephant population, including some of the last remaining big tuskers. We were fortunate enough to encounter one of the most famous of them all: Michael.
Michael walked gracefully across the road directly in front of our vehicles, giving guests a remarkable look at one of Africa’s most iconic elephants.
I have seen a lot of elephants in my life and to see one of this magnitude was amazing, with tusks almost dragging on the ground. It was a special moment for everyone in the group.
Lewa Conservancy: Conservation in Action
Our next stop was Lewa Conservancy, one of Kenya’s most important conservation success stories. Lewa offers exceptional wildlife viewing, but what makes it truly special is its commitment to conservation, community engagement, and education.
The scenery alone is remarkable, with rolling hills and Mount Kenya creating a stunning backdrop for every game drive.
Lewa operates differently from many safari destinations. Sightings are carefully managed, with only a limited number of vehicles permitted at any one wildlife encounter. The result is a much more intimate safari experience.
Game drives often ended with a Tusker beer or gin and tonic while watching the African sunset paint the landscape in gold and orange.
Wildlife highlights included both black and white rhinos, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and many of the other species that make northern Kenya such a unique safari destination. For many guests, seeing these endangered rhinos thriving in one of Africa’s leading conservation areas was a particular highlight.
Beyond the wildlife, our group learned about the sophisticated efforts being undertaken to combat poaching, monitor wildlife movements, and work alongside local communities.
One of the most inspiring initiatives is the work being done to bring local schoolchildren into the conservancy so they can experience these animals in the wild and develop a connection to conservation from an early age.
Witnessing the Great Migration
From Lewa, we flew to the world-famous Maasai Mara. Like many travellers, we arrived hoping to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the Great Migration.
Every year, approximately two million wildebeest, zebra, eland, and other animals move across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. It is one of the largest wildlife movements on Earth.
Our camp was situated along the Sand River, placing us in an excellent position to observe the migration. We were fortunate enough to witness a crossing of several hundred wildebeest and zebra moving back into Tanzania. It was an incredible wildlife experience and a highlight for many guests.
The Mara continued to deliver exceptional sightings throughout our stay. We watched a lioness and her cubs eating a wildebeest. We observed a female leopard posing perfectly in the grass. We counted more than 30 massive crocodiles, over 130 hippos, and thousands of antelope.
A wildlife mecca with animals everywhere you looked.
My final memorable wildlife encounter came on our last game drive. Normally, when heading to the airport, expectations are lower as everyone begins thinking about flights and departure logistics. Instead, we came across a hungry cheetah scanning the plains for its next meal. It was a fitting final chapter to an incredible safari.
More Than Wildlife
As extraordinary as the wildlife was, some of my favourite memories had nothing to do with animals.
During the journey, we celebrated two birthdays, marked a 40th wedding anniversary, and welcomed a new generation of Junior Rangers into the fold.
Guests shared stories around campfires, exchanged travel experiences, and formed friendships that I know will continue long after returning home.
Back in Nairobi before our flight home, several guests decided to head into town for some last-minute shopping before gathering at a local microbrewery that happened to be celebrating Oktoberfest. A well-earned pint, plenty of laughter, and one last evening together felt like the perfect way to conclude the journey.
Why Hosted Journeys Matter
After travelling to Africa for more than 30 years and hosting small group journeys across the continent for over a decade, I continue to enjoy seeing guests experience these incredible destinations for the first time.
The wildlife is often what initially draws people to Africa. The shared experiences are what bring many of them back.
Whether it is witnessing a river crossing during the Great Migration, learning about rhino conservation in Lewa, seeing a giant tusker elephant up close, or sharing stories around the campfire, these moments create memories that last a lifetime.
Thank you to the incredible group who joined me in Kenya this year. It was a privilege to share the journey with you, and I look forward to many more adventures ahead.
Kylan Falk
Managing Director, Civilized Adventures
Upcoming Hosted Africa Journeys
At Civilized Adventures, our small hosted group journeys are carefully designed to combine expert leadership, exceptional experiences, and meaningful connections with fellow travellers.
Tanzania Safari
January 2027 | Limited Availability
Experience the wildlife, landscapes, and extraordinary biodiversity that make Tanzania one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.
Kenya & Tanzania Safari
September 2027
Discover two of East Africa’s most celebrated safari regions, combining the legendary Maasai Mara with the vast Serengeti ecosystem.
Zambia & Victoria Falls
October 2027
Explore one of Africa’s most authentic safari destinations, paired with one of the world’s great natural wonders.
Egypt & the Nile
November 2027
Journey through ancient history, extraordinary archaeological sites, and the timeless landscapes on a luxury Nile River cruise.
Discover the small hosted group journey that best matches the Africa you want to experience.
Inspired For Your Next Journey?
Our experienced travel advisors can help you evaluate options and create a journey aligned with your interests, travel style, and goals.