Stepping off the plane in Kenya, Maryna and I felt an immediate energy. We joined Donna at the Essence of Africa travel expo (EoA), but as we quickly discovered, Kenya offered far more than just business and provided a gateway to a land of immense beauty.
Our trip began in the coastal paradise of Diani. The Diamonds Leisure Beach Resort was my haven, its pristine beaches and blue waters a welcome contrast to the everyday. The rhythm of the ocean quickly lulled me into a sense of calm, preparing me for the busy days ahead.
Next, we went to Vipingo, where the Vipingo Ridge provided a luxurious base. The drive along the coast was amazing, showcasing Kenya’s unique scenery. Then it was on to Malindi, a town steeped in history, and off course, the Billionaire Resort. Each location offered a unique flavor of Kenya’s shoreline.
The Essence of Africa Expo
The Essence of Africa Expo (EoA) itself was a fantastic experience. It was exceptionally well-run and organized, with delightful events each evening that fostered a relaxed atmosphere for networking. I had some incredibly useful conversations with both colleagues and clients, gaining valuable insights into current trends and preferences in the travel industry. The Market Focus sessions, dedicated to specific source markets, were particularly insightful, offering a deeper understanding of various client needs.
It was wonderful to reconnect with so many industry professionals. I ran into reps from our Kenyan business partners, including Diamonds, Hemingways, and Secluded Africa. Familiar faces from South Africa were also in attendance, such as Lindsey Gibaud from Big Tree Marketing, representatives from Aquila Game Reserve, and Tourplan. Then there was a truly unexpected encounter with Dale Geldenhuys, who previously represented Fancourt and is now based in the Netherlands, representing a property in East Africa. The expo truly provided a fantastic platform for connection and collaboration.
Would I recommend industry professionals attend? Absolutely. It’s an opportunity to explore the product offerings available, exchange ideas with colleagues, and meet potential clients. While beneficial for all, I think it’s particularly well-suited for properties looking to showcase their offerings rather than DMCs, given the nature of the interactions.
Travel Logistics
Internal flights between these destinations were surprisingly easy and comfortable. The small, well-run airports made for a smooth experience. But the flight into the Maasai Mara was truly a highlight. A small aircraft with only 12 passenger seats, swooped down to land directly on the savannah. We were met by a safari vehicle and my guide, and from that moment, my safari had begun. A game drive transfer took me directly to Angama Mara Lodge, my home for the next few days.
The Maasai Mara
Let’s talk about the Maasai Mara, because that, my friends, was where the magic truly happened. On a hot air balloon ride, we saw giraffe, elephants, hippos, and antelope from a beautiful aerial perspective. The day before, guests had spotted a large pride of lions, but we, unfortunately, missed them. During the landing, the balloon basket gracefully tipped onto its side as it deflated, gliding across the ground until it came to a gentle stop. What an experience!
During the game drives, we encountered an impressive variety of wildlife, including leopard, cheetah, lions, black rhino, wildebeest, vultures, a colorful lilac-breasted roller, buffalo, hyena, zebra, giraffe, elephants, and playful baboons. The density and variety of larger game animal sightings were more impressive than anything I’ve experienced in South Africa, Zimbabwe, or Botswana.
However, the private concessions of the Kruger have the advantage of off-roading capabilities, which allows for better animal tracking and, consequently, some incredibly high-quality sightings. While the plant-and-birdlife might not be as varied as in South Africa, with its unique Western and Eastern Cape landscapes, or the exceptional birding in Botswana, the sheer volume of iconic wildlife in the Mara is simply astounding.
Activities and Luxury Lodges
Beyond the animals, I enjoyed a farm visit lunch at the lodge’s own sustainable farm, where they grow their ingredients. For anyone seeking an unforgettable travel experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Maasai Mara. Even outside of migration season, it is an incredible place. The profound sense of space, the sweeping views of the savannah, and the animal sightings are simply top-notch. A hot air balloon safari further amplifies that feeling of expansive wilderness.
Lodges of the caliber of Angama Mara and Loirien Mara offer an absolute treat in terms of quality service and attentiveness. Your lodge program is tailored to your preferences in a way I’ve never experienced elsewhere, making it a truly bespoke and bucket-list-worthy destination.