40 Lions, Rare Servals, and Unforgettable Moments on My Kenyan Safari Adventure

In November, I had the pleasure of discovering a new African country, Kenya— my eleventh on this continent. I was awestruck by the vastness of the plains and the richness of the wildlife. East Africa is the ultimate safari destination. Having explored Tanzania ten years ago, I dreamed of returning to these endless landscapes and seeing the iconic herds of wildebeest and zebras once again.

Travelling during the rainy season has always been my preferred choice. The vegetation is so lush and the vibrant green plains contrast with the dramatic skies when storms approach, creating a magical atmosphere. This season is also a time of new life, with newborns thriving on the abundance of food. Contrary to popular belief, I find that animals are more active and visible during this time. The rivers are full, delighting hippos and crocodiles, and predators hunt without the burden of oppressive heat.

On this trip, I stayed in the magnificent Asilia lodges and explored Ol Pejeta, a unique sanctuary dedicated to rhino conservation. This reserve has an effective rhino anti-poaching unit and also has a rehabilitation centre for chimpanzees. Ol Pejeta perfectly exemplifies Kenya’s commitment to conservation while respecting local communities. Many concessions are owned by Maasai families, creating a harmonious balance between wildlife, tourism, and local populations.

I also travelled south in a light aircraft to discover the private conservancies of the Masai Mara. What joy to arrive in the savannah, where the Maasai graze their cattle and lions roam in abundance. The landscapes were breathtaking. During a walking safari with a qualified ranger, we encountered a lion just a few meters away. We also saw lionesses hunting, buffalos charging, and even a hippo. Every moment was filled with thrills and awe.

I think I’ve been on more than 200 safaris, but it was in Kenya that I saw a serval for the first time—and not just one, but three! Another unforgettable scene was watching a leopard sharing its prey with its cubs in a tree, surrounded by hyenas, vultures, and jackals. In just three days, I was fortunate enough to admire more than forty lions, from adorable cubs to majestic, healthy adults.

However, the growing popularity of safaris brings challenges. In July and August, during the wildebeest migration, the Masai Mara sometimes turns into an overcrowded zoo. Hundreds of vehicles disrupt the animals and endanger their ecosystem. Fortunately, the Kenyan government has raised entrance fees in a bid to limit the crowds. These measures aim to preserve this unique environment and help support conservation.

I’ll never forget these precious moments in Kenya, which continues to fuel my passion for Africa. My work at Leopard allows me to live this passion daily and promote responsible tourism. Kenya is a gem that deserves our utmost care and respect. If you’re planning a safari, I’d highly recommend that you choose to visit during the rainy or low season for an authentic and sustainable experience without the crowds.

Happy travelling,

Daphnée

P.S. If you’d like to discover an almost unimaginably rich wildlife experience in Kenya we’d love to help you plan a trip of a lifetime.