Disappointing Truths Revealed: My Recent Group Tour Experience in Kenya π
I was suddenly struck by an irresistible urge to explore Africa and witness its magnificent wildlife, so I dived into researching travel guides online. After enthusiastic discussions with my friends, we decided to embark on a safari adventure in Kenya, Africa. I can’t help but regret not making this trip sooner; the breathtaking scenes from “Animal World” pale in comparison to the real, awe-inspiring beauty of the African savannah!
I’m eager to share my experiences and tips with you. If you’re planning a journey to Africa, don’t miss out on these essential insights to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience!
π Essential Tips:
1. Kenya has a strict ban on plastic bags, so make sure to pack non-woven or reusable bags instead.
2. Approximately 15 days before your departure, visit the International Travel Health Care Center to get the yellow fever vaccine and obtain the Yellow Book, which is mandatory for entry.
3. The water quality in Kenya can be questionable, so always use bottled water for drinking, washing your face, and brushing your teeth. Avoid tap water to prevent bacterial infections.
4. Most safari trips take place within national parks, so safety is paramount. Always follow the instructions of your driver-guide, stay inside the vehicle, and never feed the animals.
5. Be wary of tours priced under 10,000 RMB that claim to offer small groups and 4-5 star accommodations. These often come with hidden costs, such as mandatory ticket purchases or forced shopping stops.
π About the Tour We Chose
As first-time visitors to Africa, we were naturally concerned about safety, especially given the numerous stories of scams and mismanagement. Additionally, we were worried about potential communication issues due to language barriers. To alleviate these concerns, we opted for a guided tour. Initially, we were overwhelmed by the options and anxious about falling into tourist traps, but a friend who had recently returned from Africa recommended a fantastic tour to us.
π Our Experience
Comfort is key during a safari, as you spend a significant amount of time in the vehicle. A smaller group size ensures a more personalized and enjoyable experience. With fewer people, it’s easier to coordinate activities like meals, restroom breaks, and sightseeing with the guide and fellow travelers.
We ultimately chose a 6-person, pure-play small group. The other participants were friendly and around our age, and we quickly formed new friendships, making the trip incredibly fun and filled with laughter.
Reflecting on our return, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate we were to avoid a large, impersonal group. If you’re considering a safari, take your time and choose wisely; otherwise, you might as well stay home.
π° Cost
The total cost for our trip was around 30,000 RMB, which included airfare, accommodation, meals, and the guide. There were no hidden fees, and we also enjoyed some additional paid activities, making the overall experience well worth the investment.
I have to give a huge shoutout to our guide, who was not only incredibly funny but also highly responsible. Any issue we encountered, he resolved with lightning speed. His π· photography skills were top-notch, and he even shared some fantastic tips on how to pose, capturing many awesome shots for us to flaunt on social media, hahaha.
β¨ Chatter
The moment I saw a group of animals right in front of me at the Maasai Mara National Reserve, I was so moved that I almost cried. After shedding a few tears, I felt exhilarated sitting in the off-road vehicle on the safari. I asked the guide to snap loads of photos of me, and we had such a blast, hahaha. We also took a hot air balloon ride to watch the sunrise, and it was absolutely breathtaking!
From July to September, Kenya experiences an incredible animal migration. Sisters, you absolutely must go!!! If you have any questions, feel free to ask, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I see them.
