Safari Adventures on the African Savannah: Tips to Avoid Common Troubles
The rain began to pour as we made our way back from the Kenya-Tanzania border. After an hour of driving through relentless downpours, a diverse group—a French couple, a South African and Italian duo, a pair from Costa Rica, a Danish lady, and myself—found ourselves stranded in a small, rickety van. The rising water levels have rendered the road impassable, and any alternative routes are equally unfeasible, leaving us uncertain about how long we will be stuck here.
Here’s a quick rundown of the last two days on safari in Masai Mara:
1. Weather
– The mornings and evenings are bitterly cold, necessitating a down jacket. Only at midday does the sun provide some warmth, but with the roof open, it remains windy and chilly, so warm clothing is essential. A windbreaker or a blanket is highly recommended.
– Rain has become more frequent: we had a safari after a rain shower last night, and today, we faced heavy rain on our return journey.
The grasslands are visibly transforming from a dry yellow to a lush green, with almost no dust in the air.
2. Safari Arrangement
– I booked a 10-day Kenya-Tanzania safari adventure. For someone like me who isn’t particularly passionate about wildlife, I was already feeling numb after just two hours yesterday. So! ❗️It’s crucial to start with a shorter trip. If you enjoy it, you can always book more days, rather than committing to a lengthy tour all at once.
Since the money is already spent and my travel companions assure me it’s worth seeing more, I’m trying to adjust my mindset. The most exhilarating moments for me were the sunrise over the grasslands and the dramatic stormy sky before the heavy rain. Although I still feel like quitting, I’m making an effort to stay positive and appreciate the experience.
3. About the Migration
– Currently, there are no animals migrating across the Mara River. While the Masai Mara in Kenya is smaller than the Serengeti, spotting cheetahs, lions, and other wildlife is still quite challenging. Don’t expect to see animals every few steps; it’s a vast and wild area that requires patience and luck.
4. A final reminder, advice‼️: Don’t be swayed by the picturesque images on social media. In reality, not everyone finds a safari enjoyable. Before coming, it’s all fantasy. Be realistic and start with a 3-4 day trip to see if it’s right for you.
