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Safaris and Skylines: The Unique Juxtaposition of Nairobi National Park Nairobi National Park, a mere stone’s throw from the vibrant heart of Kenya’s capital, is a living testament to the nation’s unwavering dedication to wildlife preservation. Founded in 1946, this was Kenya’s inaugural national park, and it remains a one-of-a-kind urban sanctuary where the untamed and the urban coexist. Spanning 117 square kilometers, this park is a veritable treasure trove of diverse wildlife and ecosystems, making it an unmissable stop for nature enthusiasts and globetrotters alike. A Safari at the Doorstep of a Metropolis One of the most extraordinary aspects of Nairobi National Park is its unique location, nestled against Nairobi’s urban skyline. Witnessing giraffes and rhinos grazing against a backdrop of skyscrapers is a surreal and exclusive experience. This juxtaposition of urban and wild underscores the park’s uniqueness and accessibility, offering visitors a rare opportunity to begin their safari adventure without leaving the city limits. Visiting Nairobi National Park is not just a safari; it’s a privileged glimpse into a world where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously! Almost immediately spotting a lioness at Nairobi National Park mere minutes into our first game drive was an exhilarating experience. As the early morning sunbathed the park in a warm, golden light, we navigated the park’s winding trails with eager anticipation. As we got closer, this magnificent lioness was revealed, basking in the soft morning sun. She sprawled out on a patch of tall grass, her golden face shimmering in the sunlight. With half-closed eyes, she appeared utterly relaxed, embodying a sense of calm and majesty that was genuinely captivating. Her robust frame rose and fell gently with each breath, a picture of serene strength. The scene was a perfect blend of power and serenity, showcasing the lioness in a moment of leisure. Thinking that this was the only lioness we would see, we sat quietly in our car and took numerous pictures. As we drove around the park, we saw giraffes with the skyline of Nairobi as a backdrop. It is a beautiful experience that beautifully encapsulates the unique charm of Nairobi National Park. As we ventured deeper into the park, the excitement of encountering these gentle giants grew. The landscape around us was a mix of rolling savannahs and scattered acacia trees, creating the perfect habitat for giraffes. We saw them—tall and elegant, their long necks gracefully reaching for the tender leaves of the trees. With their distinct patterns and towering stature, giraffes stood out against the horizon. But what made this sight genuinely excellent was the contrast between the giraffes and the city skyline beyond. The skyscrapers of Nairobi rose proudly in the background, starkly contrasting the park’s natural beauty. Another extraordinary and surreal experience was seeing a black rhino with Nairobi’s skyline in the background. The open grasslands and scattered acacia trees created an ideal setting for this wildlife encounter. Amidst the golden grasses, we saw a magnificent rhino and its child, its formidable form moving with a sense of ancient grace. The rhino’s thick, armored skin and prominent horn were awe-inspiring, symbolizing strength and resilience. What made this sight genuinely remarkable, however, was the backdrop: the modern, towering skyscrapers of Nairobi rising sharply against the horizon. The contrast was striking and thought-provoking. A wild rhino, whose ancestors roamed the earth long before human civilization, stood against the backdrop of a bustling, modern city. The sight perfectly captured the unique juxtaposition of Nairobi National Park, where the wild meets the urban harmoniously. Not far beyond the road, two armed guards monitored the location of the pair to ensure their safety from poachers.  Watching the rhinos calmly graze, occasionally lifting their heads to survey their surroundings, was a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human development. The scene was a vivid testament to Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation, even as the city of Nairobi continues to grow and thrive just beyond the park’s boundaries. Urban Wildlife Harmony This experience of seeing these animals with Nairobi as the backdrop is a vivid reminder of the delicate balance between urban expansion and conservation. It highlights the importance of protecting these natural sanctuaries that allow such incredible wildlife encounters to continue. It was a moment of awe and inspiration, a perfect blend of nature and city life unique to Nairobi National Park. Watching all these animals, we felt a profound sense of harmony between nature and civilization, a testament to Kenya’s commitment to preserving its wildlife despite rapid urban development.  The encounter was more than just a memorable wildlife sighting; it was a profound experience that underscored the importance of preserving natural habitats amidst urban expansion. Nairobi National Park stands as a beacon of hope, showing that wildlife and urban life coexist with conscious efforts. Wildlife and Biodiversity Nairobi National Park is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see: Lions: The park has a healthy lion population, and spotting these majestic predators is a highlight for many visitors. Rhinos: Both black and white rhinos roam the park, and Nairobi National Park is one of the few places where you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Giraffes: Towering giraffes are a common sight, gracefully moving through the savannah. Buffalos: Large herds of buffalo add to the park’s impressive wildlife roster. Zebras and Wildebeests: These grazers are abundant and often seen in large groups. Birdlife: The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species, including ostriches and the colorful lilac-breasted roller. Gazelles: There are several herds of Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelles wandering in the park. The park also has diverse ecosystems, including open grass plains, acacia-dotted savannahs, wetlands, and riverine forests. This variety reinforces a wide range of flora and fauna, making every visit a unique experience. Conservation Efforts Nairobi National Park is pivotal in conservation, particularly for endangered species. The park’s rhino sanctuary is crucial for protecting and breeding black rhinos, significantly contributing to their preservation. As

Magic Awaits: Exploring the Wonders of Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake, unlike Nakuru, a soda or saltier lake. The lake lies 6,200 feet above sea level, about 95 kilometers north of Nairobi in the Great Rift Valley.  Naivasha derives from the local Maasai name Nai’posha, meaning “rough water.” Two rivers feed it, one of which is the Malewa, whose source is in the Aberdare’s, and it has twice dried out since 1898. Our journey to Lake Naivasha on the second day in Nairobi was a thrilling adventure filled with anticipation and wonder. We started with a breathtaking stop to view the Great Rift Valley, a sight that left us in awe. As we left the bustling city behind and ventured into the rolling hills and open landscapes, we could feel the excitement building up. And when we finally reached the Great Rift Valley, the view that unfolded before us was spectacular. A vast area of land with dramatic escarpments and deep valleys was known as the Rift Valley, which extended in all directions. Standing there, with the cool morning breeze and the endless horizon, we felt awe at the geological forces that had shaped this region millions of years ago. After soaking in the stunning vistas and capturing numerous photographs, we continued our journey towards Lake Naivasha.  Upon arrival, the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha greeted us, including the sudden arrival of giraffes and zebras. This was our first encounter with the animals in their natural habitat, so we had to take many photos! Maxwell, our driver, had arranged for us to explore the lake by boat and go to Crescent Island. Diverse wildlife was all around us as the ship sailed effortlessly through the calm waters. Hippos lounged near the shore, their massive bodies partially submerged, while various birds, including pelicans, cormorants, and kingfishers, went about their daily activities. Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Kenya. It is often called Naivasha’s best-kept secret.  Our boat guide shared fascinating insights about the lake’s ecosystem and inhabitants, adding depth to our observations. Our time at Crescent Island was a truly magical experience. We found ourselves immersed in the tranquility of nature, with no other tourists in sight. It felt like our slice of paradise—a private audience with nature! The absence of other tourists heightened our connection to the natural surroundings, making the experience even more profound.  We embarked on a leisurely walk, following well-trodden paths through the island’s varied landscapes. This was the only time we could do a walking safari tour with wild animals up close, as there were no significant predators on the island when we were there. We had a guide—a park ranger—all to ourselves, talking about the animals as we walked past them! Almost immediately, we began encountering wildlife. A group of Burchell zebras grazed nearby, their striped coats contrasting beautifully against the green backdrop. A 3-day-old baby zebra was hiding from her mother.  As we got closer, they gave us a curious look before quickly returning to their peaceful grazing.   As we continued our leisurely walk, we came across a herd of wildebeests moving slowly through the grasslands.  Another unforgettable moment was spotting a family of Masai giraffes. Their long necks stretched high as they fed on the tender leaves of the acacia trees. Watching these gentle giants move gracefully across the landscape was a sight to behold. The lack of other tourists allowed us to observe their behavior and interactions quietly, deepening our connection to the wild. As we ventured further, we encountered groups of zebras grazing peacefully and spotted several giraffes moving gracefully among the acacia trees. Being so close to these animals in their natural habitat was a thrilling experience that exhilarated and humbled us. We saw the hippopotamus, cape buffalo, impala, Defassa waterbuck, wildebeest, Thompson gazelle, Grants gazelle, bushbuck, and velvet monkey. We looked for the African Rock Python, as the ranger had recently spotted one, but we did not find it. Crescent Island boasted an equally impressive birdlife. We saw vibrant kingfishers darting across the water and fish eagles perched high in the trees, their keen eyes scanning the lake for prey. The diversity of bird species added a melodic soundtrack to our walk, their calls and songs filling the air with a symphony of nature. By 1 PM, the clouds thickened, signaling an impending downpour. With a sense of urgency, we quickly left the Island to break for lunch before continuing our journey to Hell’s Gate National Park. Fun Fact: Crescent Island is a popular attraction in the Lake Naivasha area, where Out of Africa was primarily filmed in 1985.    Hell’s Gate National Park The park, starkly contrasted with the serene lake, is known for its dramatic landscapes and geothermal activity. We entered to find imposing cliffs and narrow gorges that were the remains of ancient volcanic activity. The park’s lack of other visitors enhanced its raw, untamed beauty. We came across a variety of wildlife; herds of zebras and gazelles grazed carefree, unconcerned by my presence. Giraffes moved gracefully among the acacia trees, their long necks reaching for the highest leaves. The sight of these animals in such a rugged landscape continues to inspire me. One of the most thrilling parts of the trip was walking through the park’s narrow gorges. We met a Maasai guide who took us through these rock pathways to a spot featured in The Lion King, where we saw all these crazy rock formations. The winding paths took us to hot springs and geothermal vents where steam rose from the ground, creating an otherworldly atmosphere, all surrounded by tall rock walls. The solitude here was profound, allowing us to fully appreciate the park’s geological wonders. As the day drew close and we headed back to Nairobi, the sun started to set. Half asleep, I could see the sky slowly transforming into fiery oranges and purples, and the next thing

Elephants and Hope: A Visit to Nairobi’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nestled on the edge of Nairobi National Park lies a sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants, victims of the ivory poaching trade. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) operates the world’s most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program. To honor her late husband, David Sheldrick, Dame Daphne Sheldrick founded it in 1977. My desire to travel to Kenya and visit the elephant orphanage stems from several reasons. First of all, I’ve always been enamored with elephants and how extraordinary these gentle giants are, especially after watching An Elephant’s World and Secrets of the Elephants on Nat Geo, which transported me to this incredible Kenyan wildlife operation. I’ve also read about the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and its dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing orphaned elephants into the wild. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s capacity to save orphaned elephants and reintegrate them into the wild has me extremely interested. Every baby elephant has a heart-wrenching tale, but once they find sanctuary at the orphanage, there’s a glimmer of hope for their future. The tireless caretakers devote themselves to the elephants’ well-being, offering 24/7 care and sleeping alongside them for comfort.  How do I visit? The first option is a public midday visit to the elephant nursery. The second option is a private and exclusive afternoon encounter. Both options vary in price, group size, and experience. They are tightly managed and limited to just one hour each to ensure the elephants maintain a largely undisturbed daily routine. The public visit is scheduled for midday, 11 a.m.–noon. Guests must purchase their tickets precisely 90 days before their trip. No walk-up entries are allowed. The entrance fee is USD 15 per person. The midday visit is limited to 100 guests. The second option is private and limited to no more than eight individuals. The private encounters demand meticulous planning. This experience necessitates a generous USD 900 donation to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. SWT Impact Daphne Sheldrick established the trust in honor of her late husband, dedicating her life to wildlife preservation and conservation. She pioneered the development of milk formula and nurturing techniques crucial for successfully rearing milk-dependent elephant and rhinoceros calves. Her groundbreaking work transformed the Orphans’ Project into the cornerstone of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, emerging as a global leader in wildlife conservation. Her achievements are unparalleled, with over 160 formerly orphaned elephants thriving in their natural habitats across Kenya. The care of growing elephants demands a continuous, round-the-clock commitment. Even after graduating from the nursery unit in Nairobi, three-year-old calves are transitioned to one of Sheldrick’s three reintroduction units for the next phase of their rewilding journey. Situated in Tsavo East National Park and Kibwezi Forest, these units offer the spaciousness necessary for the orphans to reintegrate into the wild, residing in areas inhabited by wild elephant herds. Here, they are gradually weaned and equipped with the skills essential for living as wild elephants. Rewilding is a gradual process tailored to each elephant’s unique requirements, often spanning several years. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s unwavering commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing these wild orphans has earned it global acclaim, inspiring many conservation organizations worldwide. How Can We Support? Sheldrick Wildlife Trust commands my utmost admiration and endorsement. They have revolutionized Kenya’s approach to safeguarding its invaluable wildlife for over four decades. From their highly skilled team members to the management of eco-lodges and rewilding sites, Sheldrick consistently surpasses expectations as a conservation powerhouse. Please consider adopting one of their orphaned animals to bolster their impactful work. These digital adoptions offer a personalized adoption certificate, monthly email updates and watercolors, and exclusive access to keeper diaries. With a modest annual fee of just USD 50 per orphan, adopting one is a meaningful gesture of support and a profound way to align with Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s unparalleled mission. We adopted a two-year-old baby elephant named Shujaa, which means hero in Swahili. On August 21, 2022, at dusk, visitors to Tsavo East National Park discovered Shujaa, a tiny calf left behind in a muddy embankment. Rescued just in time by the Voi Team and later flown to the Nairobi Nursery, his life was saved from certain peril. Ethical Elephant Encounter in Kenya Undoubtedly, the most ethically sound way to encounter elephants in Kenya is to observe them in their natural habitat. Kenya boasts renowned elephant herds in Amboseli, Masai Mara, and Tsavo, where these majestic creatures roam freely. Fortunately, Kenya’s tourism industry has yet to succumb to offering unethical elephant activities. Kenya, however, stands firm in its commitment to avoiding such exploitation within its tourism sector. Beyond the endeavors of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, another ethical elephant encounter awaits about 340 miles (550 km) north: the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. The Samburu region’s community-owned grassroots initiative is devoted to saving and rehabilitating orphaned elephant calves. Established in 2016, Reteti operates entirely locally, with a community-elected board overseeing all activities and employing caretakers exclusively from the local community to tend to the elephants. The sanctuary offers daily tours for visitors keen on witnessing their work firsthand. An elephant caretaker leads each tour group through the grounds so they can observe the calves during feeding and amusing mud-wallowing sessions. A visit to Reteti Elephant Sanctuary not only supports their noble mission but also contributes to the empowerment of the local community through positive tourism impacts in the region. I Highly Recommend a Visit to the Sheldrick Trust Our visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi was one of our most heartwarming and educational experiences, timed perfectly to witness the endearing elephant feeding time. There was intense excitement and anticipation as we gathered with other visitors in the observation area. We all gathered at the feeding area, a sizable, open area with ropes encircling it so we could get a close-up view without disturbing the elephants. The feeding time started with the baby rhino, Raha, parading with her two caregivers, who were walking side by side. Her name, Raha, means joy

Nairobi’s Giraffe Center: An Exciting and Educational Day Out The Nairobi Giraffe Center is an exciting and educational day out with the family. You can see Africa’s most famous animals and have a fun and instructive adventure. It is located in the green suburb of Lang’ata, only a short drive from the city center of Nairobi. The organization dedicates itself to safeguarding the endangered Rothschild giraffe. The Giraffe Center is open from 09:00 to 17:00 daily, including weekends and all public holidays. For non-resident visitors, it costs Ksh 1,500 per adult and Ksh 750 per child aged 3–12. For Kenyan residents, it is Ksh 400 per adult and Ksh 200 per child. Children under 3 are free. There is no need to reserve your tickets beforehand; you can buy your tickets upon arrival. However, they only accept payment in M-Pesa, Visa, or Mastercard at the gate. Feed the giraffes! One of the most thrilling aspects of your visit is the chance to feed the giraffes. Upon arrival, you’ll be handed a complimentary bowl of food pellets to feed the giraffes, or you can purchase more at the entrance. With their long, prehensile tongues, the giraffes eagerly accept the pellets directly from your hand, making you both excited and privileged. This encounter is entertaining and makes for a fantastic picture opportunity. The well-informed personnel at the center explain the giraffes’ diet, habits, and conservation activities aimed at protecting them. Visitors may get up close and personal with the giraffes at the Giraffe Center’s viewing platform. Younger guests love this vantage point since it gives them a different look than the giraffes. You can also find a short nature path where you can go for a stroll while taking in the sights and sounds of the area’s native plants and animals.  But watch out that you don’t irritate them! One giraffe, in particular, has a strong dislike for children. The ranger sternly told the misbehaving children to quiet down and quit bothering the giraffe. According to him, this particular giraffe was cranky and didn’t particularly like kids. So, what did the kids do? They disregarded the guide’s instructions and seemingly teased the giraffe while offering their pellets. The seemingly innocent disregard provoked the old giraffe, and the giraffe retaliated. She turned on these children and began hitting the children with her head! Lessons Learned. Taking the kids to Nairobi’s Giraffe Center will surely be an unforgettable and enjoyable day out. Anyone visiting Nairobi should visit the Giraffe Center, where they can feed the animals and engage with them pleasantly and instructively.  For the ultimate giraffe experience, and if you have extra money, consider staying at the renowned Giraffe Manor. This unique opportunity will surely leave you feeling intrigued and excited. While staying at the Giraffe Manor, you could see the resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes peeking through your windows in hopes of a treat before retreating to their sanctuary. The giraffes expect guests to share their breakfast and then wander back to the center for the rest of the day. The Giraffe Center provides an excellent opportunity to engage with nature while contributing to vital conservation initiatives. It is an ideal destination for anybody seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, whether they are animal lovers, conservationists, or adventure seekers. Going to the Giraffe Center is a must, regardless of whether you’re traveling with kids. Author: Cristy Photo Credit: Nathan Latest Post All Posts Blog Tales from the Savannah: Give Me The Big Five Read More The Adventure of a Lifetime: Navigating Namibia in a Jimny Read More Adventure Drive to Swakopmund: 4Wheeling in the Sand Dunes Read More Namibia’s Quiver Trees: Icons of Survival and Beauty Read More From Salt Pan Serenity to Safari Wonders: The Ultimate Etosha Adventure Read More Safaris and Skylines: The Unique Juxtaposition of Nairobi National Park Read More Magic Awaits: Exploring the Wonders of Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate Read More Elephants and Hope: A Visit to Nairobi’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Read More Nairobi’s Giraffe Center: An Exciting and Educational Day Out Read More Facebook Instagram

Journey to the Wild: First Impressions of Masai Mara “One cannot resist the lure of Africa.” -Rudyard Kipling We arrived safely after a brief 40-minute trip on a tiny propeller plane from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Masai Mara Oleikiombo Airport. The landing strip blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings with a sparse dirt runway. The plane touches down gently, stirring up a cloud of dust that quickly settles back onto the sun-baked earth. Stepping off the plane, the warm African breeze carries the scents of the savannah—a mix of earth, grass, and the distant hint of wildlife. Our guide was already waiting for us. He picked up our bags and took us to the truck. The safari car—a land cruiser equipped for the rugged terrain—stands ready to take us deeper into the savannah. As we loaded our bags and settled into the open-air truck, our guide started sharing stories and insights, setting the stage for the amazing adventure that awaited. The thrill of our first safari trip was palpable. The first animal we spotted was a hyena on our way to the Base Camp Lodge. The drive to the lodge was an exciting preview of the wildlife that awaited us, from giraffes and zebras to springboks and hartebeests. It was about noon when we arrived at the Base Camp Lodge, and our guide told us he would be back at 4 p.m. to take us on our first game drive, promising more unexpected and thrilling encounters. Our Masai guide, Steve, arrived on time for our first game drive. Upon leaving the camp, a diverse array of wildlife, including hyenas, giraffes, gazelles, cape buffalo, and topi (exclusive to the Mara and Serengeti), immediately greeted us. We also spotted a Thompson gazelle, a warthog, a cory buster, Elan, and a lilac-breasted roller, Kenya’s national bird. Each sighting of these exquisite animals was a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity. What is special about Masai Mara? The Masai Mara boasts a breathtaking tapestry of wild, rugged landscapes, friendly locals, and distinctive large and small wildlife. Renowned for the spectacular Great Migration, the Mara attracts 1.5 million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and other herbivores, to its vast savannahs annually from July to October. This awe-inspiring event, considered one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity and the interconnectedness of its ecosystems. The beauty of the African landscape is truly inspiring. In the Masai Mara, black rhinos are the rarest of the African Big Five. Until recently, it was believed that the Mara only had the African Big Four for some time. Spotting these elusive creatures added more anticipation to our safari experience. The Savannah came alive with a symphony of sounds. The air was filled with the melodious chirps of birds and wind blowing through the tall grass, adding to the sense of being truly in the wild. In the distance, the occasional grunt of a wildebeest or the bark of a zebra served as a reminder of the incredible wildlife that inhabited this land. When we encountered our first herd of elephants, it felt like a dream come true. We were amazed by these beautiful animals’ sheer size and ease. We had six game drives between Masai Mara and the Naboisho Conservancy. In the first two games, we saw four of the Big Five, a term coined by big-game hunters to refer to the most difficult animals to hunt on foot. These include the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. It was truly an unforgettable sight watching these majestic creatures! The Zebras Zebra: “There’s no limit to how much you’ll know, depending on how far beyond zebra you go.” Dr Seus Zebras are the most accessible animals to identify; seeing them is always a treat! Zebras graze peacefully, and their black and white stripes create a striking pattern against the golden grass. Occasionally, you may spot them roughhousing with each other. We came across a heartwarming scene that epitomized the beauty of motherhood in the wild. A tiny foal stood close to her mother, nestled within a small herd of zebras, seeking comfort and nourishment. The bond between mother and baby unfolded as we watched in quiet reverence. At that moment, the world around us faded into the background as we witnessed the timeless bond between mother and child, a bond that transcended species and spoke to the universal language of love. On the game drives, we must have seen hundreds of zebras and wildebeests in one place that looked like a mini-migration! The Giraffes Our first encounter with the inhabitants of the Masai Mara filled us with awe. A tower of giraffes, with their long, elegant necks reaching for the tender leaves of the acacia trees, epitomized the grace and elegance of African wildlife. Their gentle movements as they navigated the savannah were a testament to the harmony and beauty of life in the wild. Among the sea of giraffes, we once again spotted mother giraffes leaning down to bestow gentle kisses on their young calves and a baby giraffe sipping milk from its mother. We felt a profound sense of joy for the opportunity to bear witness to such extraordinary moments. The sight of giraffes engaging in their iconic pose never fails to mesmerize. With their long necks gracefully intertwined, they create a breathtaking tableau that speaks to the beauty and harmony of the natural world. It’s not just about physical proximity; it’s about connection and companionship. As we continue our safari through the Masai Mara, we carry the memory of giraffes in their iconic pose, a symbol of the profound connection that unites all living beings in the circle of life. More Lions We saw at least 40 lions, lionesses, and cubs from different parks, and they were all enchanting. Lions come out of the bush—first the lioness, then their cubs. We watched in breathless silence as a pride of lions lounged beneath the shade