Lifestyle Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. Safaris begin like a blank canvas, and we’re full of anticipation from the moment our 4WD fires up as we peek out of the raised roof like meerkats surveying their terrain.
Cameras poised, we visualise sightings: an unfolding chase, a mating ritual, a blood-red kill. “We’re in Kenya!” my safari friend Suzie cries as a red African elephant the size of a mini-van strolls languidly towards our vehicle. “I’m finally here!” Overwhelmed, she tears up.
The Explore Kenya Tour, a 12-day escorted ladies’ trip with African experts, Bench Africa , is Suzie’s first safari. “It’s only day two, and already life-changing,” she says as Sammy, one of our guides and drivers, cuts the engine near a waterhole. The noon heat has seeped from the day, and a warm glow lights up an elephant herd immersing their mammoth torsos.
Their trumpeting calls startle surrounding birdlife as they vacuum up gallons of water. It’s live action – raw, magical, with ringside seats. Then nature turns it up a notch.
A hulking male vigorously trunk-splashes the water before mounting a mud-caked female in a breeding frenzy. It’s lightning-speed coupling, but the excitement inside our safe bubble continues. “Absolutely made my day!” Michelle, a first-time solo traveller, shouts.
“It’s worth every cent to be here.” Being June we’re here after heavy rains, bouncing along muddy trac.
