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Joseph Thuo

Born and raised in Kenya, in the land of the Maasai (Narok), I started traveling extensively around the country back in College, exploring unique destinations and cultural experiences one after another. This helped me to build genuine connections with local communities and I realized how powerful these local interactions are in enriching the overall travel experience. For this reason, I really like working with people coming from all over the world and sharing each other’s background. I make it a point to connect guests to local communities to share stories and meaningful connections. Get ready to be greeted by genuine smiles, open arms, and world-class hospitality. Let me help you to choose the best destinations, immerse in rich cultures, meet the warmest people, share stories and genuine connections, and eat the best foods and cuisines that East Africa has to offer. In short - I cannot wait to bring you to this beautiful piece of earth as close as possible to your personal wishes and I look forward to being able to participate in your travel planning.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"All of East Africa from wildlife safari, mountain climbing, beach holidays, cultural safaris, honeymoons, biking, trekking and everything in between. Whether you are looking for luxury, adventure, history, or any combination thereof, we can put together the perfect itinerary for you. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was super attached to my Cousin who was more like a big brother to me when I was young. Anything he did, I did, and anywhere he went, best believe, I would do everything possible to be there. In 2008, Mum was making arrangements for a family holiday to the Kenyan Coast. And since we used to live with my cousin, she asked him if he wanted to go and he simply answered “No” without a second thought. OMG I couldn’t believe it. It was my turn in the hot seat. “Joseph, would you like to come?” I could only manage to move my head from side to side which Mum took as a No. I truly wanted to go but sided with my Cousin. Not that he asked me to. I cried and begged to join them when the day finally arrived. Mum explained that it was impossible as plans were already made. I hugged her tightly and said goodbye.

They returned, and kept reminding me of how their holiday was. I told myself that whenever the opportunity to travel presents itself to me, I won’t turn it down. Though I didn’t have any real travel experience, I did the next holiday by myself, camping at the shores of Lake Naivasha. I found it easy to break with routine, meet new people, try different foods, see other landscapes and explore different cultures. Travelling solo is sink or swim, and you have to learn how to survive — who to trust, how to make friends and how to find your way around alone. With all the experiences as a Solo traveler I discovered my passion for traveling and I love helping others find their perfect journey.
"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Oh, several. But one of my unforgettable experiences was when I decided to return to Aberdare as a Solo traveler for hiking and decided to camp before I would hike. As soon as it got dark and I was falling asleep my tent became covered with hundreds of rats. They were everywhere, climbing up my ropes and over the top of the tent. I shook as many as I could off and started a fire and stayed up all night hoping they wouldn't return. They seemed to be gone so the next night I stayed in the same place thinking they had moved on to another dump or something but no, again as it got dark they all returned bringing some of their friends as it seemed there was more than ever now. I again shook them off the tent and got a fire going.

When morning came, I decided to pack up my tent and head for a new place far from those rats. As I was walking down the trails wondering if I should return to another camping spot where we had been previously, there on the trail near to that place was a dead wild dog which had crawled out from the forest only a few feet from where we had been camping a few months previously. I decided my Aberdares hiking/camping adventure was not meant to be and headed back home."
"

Joseph is part of the following groups: Kenya Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Joseph

Trip of a lifetime!
Kenya | Aug 4 - Aug 17, 2023

Maria
Maria B.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 19, 2024
We had a fantastic trip!
Joseph was extremely helpful, patient, and always responsive. He worked with us and adjusted the trip to all our requests until we had the trip we always dreamed of. During the journey, it all went smoothly, and he was still available when we needed him. Somewhat more expensive than anticipated, but truly a great experience.
Read more

We had a fantastic trip!
Joseph was extremely helpful, patient, and always responsive. He worked with us and adjusted the trip to all our requests until we had the trip we always dreamed of. During the journey, it all went smoothly, and he was still available when we needed him. Somewhat more expensive than anticipated, but truly a great experience.

Activity Reviews
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Kenya

It was so heartwarming to see all of the great work that is happening at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and of course, who doesn't love seeing these amazing beings up close. Loved every minute of the experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Naivasha Hells Gate National Park
Lake Naivasha Hells Gate National Park
Kenya

So fun!! Beautiful place

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Mar 21, 2024

Hi Maria,
Great photos, and thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, it was my pleasure to do everything possible to be sure your travels were enjoyable and memorable.

It was a pleasure to work with you and we appreciate your trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the near future with more trips to any other part of the world!

Best wishes for your future travel journeys.

Regards,
Joseph

Northern Tanzania Safari--Fred and Doug Feb 2024
Tanzania | Feb 13 - Feb 22, 2024

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Fred P.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 29, 2024
Hi Joseph,
Doug Fishman and I completed this form in person and gave it to Aggrey, our fantastic guide. I have nothing but praise for his warm personality, animal knowledge, habitat and geographic expertise, and ability to light up a room with his friendly manner. All the camps and lodges were excellent with very kind hosts. Aggrey was adaptable to our needs and showed kindness to the other guides and staff by sharing our uneaten food. We saw all the animals we had hoped to see and...
Read more

Hi Joseph,
Doug Fishman and I completed this form in person and gave it to Aggrey, our fantastic guide. I have nothing but praise for his warm personality, animal knowledge, habitat and geographic expertise, and ability to light up a room with his friendly manner. All the camps and lodges were excellent with very kind hosts. Aggrey was adaptable to our needs and showed kindness to the other guides and staff by sharing our uneaten food. We saw all the animals we had hoped to see and Aggrey was skilled in using the cell phone and binoculars to get great images. Thanks to Kim Kim for arranging this once in a lifetime trip. Fred Pinkney, Takoma Park, MD USA.

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Mar 02, 2024

Hi Fred,
Thank you so much for the kind feedback! I'm happy to hear you and Doug had such a good experience in Tanzania. We’ll pass along your high praises for Aggrey, a cherished part of our team. It was such a pleasure to work on you trip and appreciate for trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the near future with more trips to East Africa (Kenya, Uganda or Rwanda) or any other part of the world.
Best wishes for your future travel journeys.
Many Thanks
Joseph

Hello Joseph, I wanted to give you a feedbac...
Kenya | Feb 19 - Feb 23, 2024

Olfa
Olfa L.
France | Reviewed on Feb 24, 2024
Hello Joseph, I wanted to give you a feedback about Andrew who was great with us during our trip who was able to answer all our questions and adapt according to our needs. Andrew is very professional and I plan to come back with my mom and would like to do the same trip with Andrew again. The trip was fantastic and very interesting we saw everything we wanted to see. Compared to the hotels they were all very good but on the 2nd a lake navaisha the room was not terrible and the food too. And... Read more

Hello Joseph, I wanted to give you a feedback about Andrew who was great with us during our trip who was able to answer all our questions and adapt according to our needs. Andrew is very professional and I plan to come back with my mom and would like to do the same trip with Andrew again. The trip was fantastic and very interesting we saw everything we wanted to see. Compared to the hotels they were all very good but on the 2nd a lake navaisha the room was not terrible and the food too. And for the last one in masai Mara this one was top but no wifi in the room which is a pity. So much for my little return I wanted to thank you and thank Andrew.

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 27, 2024

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, we’re happy to hear you enjoyed the blend of activities and locations and we will pass along your kind words to Andrew. We will be very happy to welcome you again with your Mom. We have also taken note of your feedback on where things were not up to your expectations and assure you that we will be looking into where we can do better on all counts.

Best wishes for your future travel journeys, with thanks,
Joseph

Tanzania Journey
Tanzania | Feb 1 - Feb 17, 2024

J
Jay W.
Madison, CT | Reviewed on Feb 18, 2024

Our trip climbing Kilimanjaro followed by a safari organized by Kimkim was fantastic. Our lead guide on Kili, Abu, was professional and really helpful. Our other guides, Nazoru and Lulu, were equally fantastic. On the safari to Tarangire park, Serengeti and Nagorogorno crater, or guide and driver, John, was so knowledgeable about the environs and animals. He really made the long driving days special. Thank you team!

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 27, 2024

Hi Jay,
Thank you very much for taking your time to leave a review regarding our services! We’re happy to hear you enjoyed the Kili trek and Safari, we will pass along your kind words for our guides and drivers. Many thanks as well for your patience and kindness throughout, you have been so great during the whole planning process, and it was such a pleasure to work with you.
Wishing you all the best and safe future travels!
Kind regards,
Joseph

Trip of a Lifetime!
Tanzania | Feb 1 - Feb 7, 2024

C
Cassie C.
Millsboro, DE | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2024
Fantastic trip. Our guide Aggrey was superb. He was so kind, knowledgeable and has 10 years of experience in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Our local contact Ali was attentive and smoothed the way for travel changes. Read more

Fantastic trip. Our guide Aggrey was superb. He was so kind, knowledgeable and has 10 years of experience in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Our local contact Ali was attentive and smoothed the way for travel changes.

Hotel Reviews
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Arusha
Authenticity & Character
The tent was so comfortable we did not want to get up each morning.
Location
The surroundings along the crater rim had a magical quality. We enjoyed the cooler evenings.
Staff
Staff were, kind, thorough, accommodating and attentive.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were so comfortable and warm on cool evenings.
Arumeru Lodge

This lodge was nothing special. It's a dated and worn. The staff weren't nearly as friendly or well trained as other places we stayed. Nothing special about the food it was adequate.

Authenticity & Character
lodge and rooms were dated and worn.
Location
The pool area and animals on property were a plus.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
furniture and bedding was dated and worn.
The Escarpment Luxury Lodge Manyara

This lodge had a beautiful view. The lodge was small, the rooms were large with comfortable beds. None of the 3 of us in our party enjoyed the food there. We were glad we only had one night here.

Authenticity & Character
This lodge was well cared for but older. Rooms were large.
Location
A good location to start long trip to Serengeti.
Staff
Staff was not well trained in hospitality.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean rooms and comfortable bed.
Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp
Arusha P.O. Box 14529, Arusha. Tanzania.
Authenticity & Character
The furniture in the lounge was dated and worn and the area was not screened in. After dark you got bit by bugs while using the wifi.
Location
In the heart of the Serengeti! Fantastic sunsets
Staff
Staff was the best part of this experience. They were friendly, kind and supper helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room and beds were comfortable and relaxing.
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 12, 2024

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, I’m happy to hear you enjoyed your safari, we will pass along your kind words for our drivers Aggrey and Ali. We have also taken note of your feedback regarding some of the accommodations and assure you that your concerns will be looked at into details.

Best wishes for your future travel journeys, with thanks,
Joseph

Had a wonderful safari with Alex as my guide....
Kenya | Feb 3 - Feb 7, 2024

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Paul B.
Zion, IL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2024

Had a wonderful safari with Alex as my guide. Thanks Joseph for fitting so much to see in the few days I had in Kenya!

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 12, 2024

Thanks for your review Paul, we’re happy to hear you enjoyed the blend of activities and locations for your short visit, we will pass along your kind words for our driver Alex.
Best wishes for your future travel journeys, with thanks,
Joseph

Great, detailed planning and accountability for the trip
Kenya | Dec 22 - Dec 29, 2023

Shamli
Shamli S.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 04, 2024
I and my husband had an amazing time in Kenya, at both Maji Moto cultural camp and Maasai Mara. The staff at each place we stayed was exceptionally warm and helpful, and we could see that every detail of the trip had been planned meticulously. My only concern was during the planning phase of this trip, where responses to our messages were quite slow at times. Even though the team was working in the background (as was evident later), there were times when we were in panic mode because we had... Read more

I and my husband had an amazing time in Kenya, at both Maji Moto cultural camp and Maasai Mara. The staff at each place we stayed was exceptionally warm and helpful, and we could see that every detail of the trip had been planned meticulously. My only concern was during the planning phase of this trip, where responses to our messages were quite slow at times. Even though the team was working in the background (as was evident later), there were times when we were in panic mode because we had not heard back from the team faster, and were also dealing with lot of issues at home at the same time. Communication is the only area that needs some improvement, but that did not stop Joseph and Nariku Travels from planning a superb experience for us. The trip was our honeymoon and we couldn't have asked for a more perfect and memorable time. Thank you Joseph and Susan!!

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Jan 15, 2024
Hi Shamli, Thanks for sharing your kind words about your travels with us in Kenya. We appreciated the opportunity to plan such a special trip for your honeymoon, to create lasting memories as you begin your life together. We do apologize for the slow response in communications at times, as we know it can be stressful to not feel informed about such an important trip. We’re working with our team and partners for hotels, tours and flights to see where the roadblocks happened to interfere with... Read more

Hi Shamli,

Thanks for sharing your kind words about your travels with us in Kenya. We appreciated the opportunity to plan such a special trip for your honeymoon, to create lasting memories as you begin your life together. We do apologize for the slow response in communications at times, as we know it can be stressful to not feel informed about such an important trip. We’re working with our team and partners for hotels, tours and flights to see where the roadblocks happened to interfere with timely communications so that we can do better. In the end it sounds like all went well, so we are happy for that.

We are grateful for your trust in us to provide a great experience, and hope we can plan further African adventures for you in the future.

All the best,
Joseph & Susan

Masai Mara & Victoria Falls - Excellent planning, great service
Kenya | Dec 22 - Dec 29, 2023

Rohan
Rohan C.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 03, 2024
We booked a trip to Masai Mara in Kenya and Victoria Falls in Zambia and our local guide was Joseph. Joseph handled the bookings and management really well, taking into consideration what all we needed as part of the itinerary. The travel and schedule was planned in such a way that we never felt rushed and also were able to cover the places and experiences which we mentioned we wanted to do. The safari driver and guide Andrew was also excellent and an expert in game drives because of whom... Read more

We booked a trip to Masai Mara in Kenya and Victoria Falls in Zambia and our local guide was Joseph. Joseph handled the bookings and management really well, taking into consideration what all we needed as part of the itinerary. The travel and schedule was planned in such a way that we never felt rushed and also were able to cover the places and experiences which we mentioned we wanted to do.

The safari driver and guide Andrew was also excellent and an expert in game drives because of whom we got to see lions many times, and leopards, which are considered to be a rare sighting, on two consecutive days.

This trip was technically our honeymoon as went right after our wedding. Joseph had conveyed the same to all the hotels where we were staying and they took extra care of us, including a mega upgrade during our stay at Victoria Falls. This was a very pleasant surprise for us and made our experience memorable.

The trip originally had a South Africa leg as well, but we had to cancel that last minute due to unforeseen visa issues. Joseph promptly helped us in getting us the refund of whatever was refundable from the South Africa leg.

Hotel Reviews
Fair Acres Boutique Hotel
Karen, Nairobi. P. O Box 1121 – 00208 Nairobi.

Good hotel, but with some flaws. Slow food service, and no elevators which is a big deal while carrying luggage.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp
Maji Moto

Fantastic experience. The activities were interesting and the staff was very helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashnil Mara Camp
Maasai Mara

Excellent serrvies, very friendly and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara

Our guide Andrew was an expert in game driving and because of him we saw all the rare animals of the Mara

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Activities
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Activities
Maji Moto

Very friendly people. Had fun

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maasai Mara Game Drives & Hot Air Balloon Ride
Maasai Mara Game Drives & Hot Air Balloon Ride
Masai Mara

Good new experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Victoria Falls Tour
Victoria Falls Tour
Livingstone

The guide was knowledgeable and helpful

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Jan 15, 2024
Thanks for your feedback, Rohan, we’re very happy to hear you had a great trip and appreciated the opportunity to plan a memorable honeymoon for you and Shamli. While there were disappointing adjustments needed for the South Africa portion due to visa issues, we were glad to be able to help make sure you received refunds for that and add some small upgrades and special moments along the way to be sure your trip was enjoyable. We will share your feedback with the hotels and drivers to be sure... Read more

Thanks for your feedback, Rohan, we’re very happy to hear you had a great trip and appreciated the opportunity to plan a memorable honeymoon for you and Shamli. While there were disappointing adjustments needed for the South Africa portion due to visa issues, we were glad to be able to help make sure you received refunds for that and add some small upgrades and special moments along the way to be sure your trip was enjoyable. We will share your feedback with the hotels and drivers to be sure they are recognized or hear about improvements needed.

With gratitude for trust in us to create a memorable honeymoon safari, we hope to plan further African adventures with you some day!

All the best,
Joseph & Susan

A brilliant experience of Kenyan people, culture and wildlife.
Kenya | Sep 9 - Sep 25, 2023

Peter
Peter H.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Oct 02, 2023
We all (4 of us) had a fantastic time in so many ways. Andrew, our driver was experienced and brilliant at getting us to the right places at the right time in the Kenyan National parks - he made a great holiday Excellent. We saw all the big 5 as well as a cheetah family, a lion pride doing a multiple hunt, and Wildebeest migration across the R Mara. Our favourite park was the Maasai Mara, and we loved visiting the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural camp and engaging with the Maasai culture and... Read more

We all (4 of us) had a fantastic time in so many ways. Andrew, our driver was experienced and brilliant at getting us to the right places at the right time in the Kenyan National parks - he made a great holiday Excellent. We saw all the big 5 as well as a cheetah family, a lion pride doing a multiple hunt, and Wildebeest migration across the R Mara. Our favourite park was the Maasai Mara, and we loved visiting the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural camp and engaging with the Maasai culture and school. In addition we had a great time in Nairobi at the Giraffe centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, as well as 3 museum visits to Karen Blixen, Nairobi Railway museum, and the National Museum, all of which were substantially enhanced by having personal guides showing us around. Finally we went by train to Mombasa and spent a few days relaxing at the beach and exploring Mombasa. The accommodation was generally good, with the Ashnil Mara Camp being the standout excellent - the staff were all so friendly and helpful and facilities and food excellent. The plans all worked well and had a marvellous balance in the 4 parks - Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha and Amboseli. Day after day, when we thought things couldn't get better - we would experience something even better! The one time we had a hiccup in the accommodation it was sorted out quickly and effectively. Thank you to Joseph and Andrew in particular.

Hotel Reviews
Ashnil Mara Camp
Maasai Mara

The best hotel we visited in Kenya. The rooms were spacious, well appointed and equipped. On chillier nights, we came back to find hot water bottles in our beds! Very friendly, discretely attentive and effective staff who obviously take a huge pride in their work and made us feel very welcome. Great views of the river and hippo, with antelope and other animals around the lodge grounds but not intrusive. Great facilities, including a fire pit in the bar in the evening. A convenient and inviting pool. Great meals (every time) and waiters to welcome you back each time we came in. At 5.30am on the morning we left, there was someone waiting to take our bags when we came out of our tent!! A delightful place to relax after a day on safari.

Authenticity & Character
The staff were genuinely friendly and went the extra mile to make our stay great.
Location
brilliant ambience, with sound effects at night and hippos in the river by day!
Staff
They quickly learnt our names and everyone was friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bed was comfortable and the tent was fully equipped with everything we needed, including en suite facilities.
Wildebeest Eco Camp
Langata, Nairobi

The tented accommodation was adequate, set in a pleasant environment. Food was fairly basic and lodge routines weren't explained very well - the evening meal is a communal meal at 7pm, and you need to be there at 7! Some staff were friendly, but we detected some tensions among the staff.

Lake Nakuru Lodge
Nakuru

A beautiful situation, with views down to the lake and the park, with the Rift Valley on the horizon. Accommodation was good with plenty of space and en suite facilities. A great dining room with good views of the lake. Friendly and helpful staff. A good pool. Comfortable. We enjoyed our time here.

Authenticity & Character
Good views and location
Location
Views to the lake and park and the rift Vally on the horizon
Staff
Friendly and supportive.
Cleanliness & Comfort
No problems here
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp
Maji Moto

An authentic experience of living with the Maasai people, who are very warm and welcoming. We were a little nervous when we arrived but we're made to feel fully at home and shown around everywhere. We loved the visit to the school and the village, and a real taste of the Maasai culture and community. We were welcomed into their lives and it was wonderful. The meals were all excellent, and particularly the evening meal, with the traditional entertainment afterwards. Though living in a Maasai hut, we felt very safe at all times, protected by the warriors from any wild life. In 24 hours we had made friends and experienced something of the life of the Maasai living at one with each other and with nature. I wouldn't have missed this experience for the world!

Authenticity & Character
Living in Maasai built huts and accommodation. Living like they live.
Location
Staff
They welcomed us as friends and family, and that is what we felt like all though the time we were there.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sentrim Amboseli

An open, quite large lodge just outside the National park. Elephant and giraffe could be seen around it, and a baby antelope was resting in the shade of our hut. The accommodation is quite spacious and well fitted out, with the outer walls of the hut being mosquito proofed. It was clean comfortable. The pool is pleasant and has a pool bar. The dining area and bar are open and give the place a very relaxing and pleasant environment. The buffet food was good with variety, as most of the hotels we stayed in. An enjoyable stay here for 2 nights. There is a balloon safari camp close by, so we were aware of the balloons being filled and fired up on the first morning, but it was not intrusive.

Authenticity & Character
Pleasant but fairly functional lodge.
Location
Outside the national park, but still quite close. No views, but an airy and spacious site with views to Kilimanjaro.
Staff
some seemed to be a bit new and confused about dining room protocols!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Liked the mosquito nets in the tent/hut walls.
Lake Naivasha Country Club
Naivasha

A beautiful setting, with an old style lodge fronting onto the lake, with a huge lawn running down to the water. In the evening, the hippo family come out to graze the grass. During the day baboons play in the garden. The lodge has an early 20th Century country club vibe, but is slightly run down. Our tent/huts were very compact and the bathrooms were in need of upgrading. From 7pm to 6am guests have to be escorted by security because of the presence of the hippos, but that adds a certain charm to the site. The bird life and hippos (in the water during the day) make the setting very attractive, though the abandoned chalets on the waterfront add to the run down feel. The food in the dining room is excellent and the staff are friendly and attentive. Recently taken over by Muthu, so may get the conference centre make-over!

Authenticity & Character
Olde world feel, but somewhat neglected.
Location
Excellent site on the edge of the lake
Staff
Friendly and efficient.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our rooms could have done with some updating and were very cramped.
Muthu Nyali Beach Hotel & Spa

This has fairly recently been taken over by the Muthu group and is set up as a conference hotel. There were several large conferences taking place the first few days, which affected the busyness of the dining room at lunchtime adversely. Our rooms initially were sub-standard and in need of refurbishment. Showers and Aircon didn't work and decor was distinctively worn and shabby. However our complaints and kimkim representation produced significant upgrades to fully functioning rooms with sea views. There are two outdoor pools, a pool bar and access to the beach (public) which we enjoyed. However, the conference focus of the hotel means there is very little to help tourists in terms of available excursions or activities, or support for getting around Mombasa. This hotel has no currency exchange or cash facility, we needed to get ourselves to a local ATM. The food in the dining room was good quality, but on the Sunday the dining room closed as there were no conferences, and we had to order food in the cafe (which was very good - but less choice). The staff were generally friendly, but the management (while responsive to our complaints) are oriented to a conference clientele, not tourists. We organised our own visit to Mombasa and spent most of the rest of the time relaxing by the pool. There is a bar which is very dark and has a large sport TV display, and a cafe terrace overlooking the beach. Also a gym and spa.

Authenticity & Character
Much of the hotel rooms need refurbishment. Public rooms are functional
Location
Its on the beach, and close to Mombasa, but not set up for tourists.
Staff
Staff were polite and very responsive to complaints ....
Cleanliness & Comfort
decor and furnishings are somewhat tired. Beddings and towels were clean.
Activity Reviews
Nairobi National Museum
Nairobi National Museum
Kenya

A guided tour of some of the history of Kenya that is so fascinating. It combines some of the human history with the rich natural history.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Kenya

Amazing privilege to watch orphaned elephants being fed! Informative background information about elephants and the work of the Trust. Lots of "Aah' moments

 Giraffe Center
Giraffe Center
Kenya

Being able to get close to Giraffe is a privilege, as well as to feed them and find out about the work of the centre. The interaction with the giraffes is fascinating.

Karen Blixen Museum
Karen Blixen Museum
Nairobi

We had a guide around the museum which was brilliant as it gave us real insights into what we were looking at. This museum starts to paint the picture of part of the history of Kenya and how people have contributed towards that history. I hadn't realised that coffee doesn't grow well at the altitude of Nairobi!!

The Nairobi Railway Museum
The Nairobi Railway Museum
Kenya

A gem of a museum, that also came alive as our guide explained the history and significance of the different artifacts. It has a unique collection of locomotives and the history of the building of the railway is a key to understanding something of the development of Kenay over the last century. A fantastic experience, not simply for railway enthusiasts but also those kenn to understand a bit more of the history of Kenya.

Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Nakuru

A wealth of natural birds and animals in their own environment. A privilege to witness these - particularly the Rhinos. In addition to lions, Giraffe, Antelope, Zebra and Warthogs, we also saw a Leopard! Such and abundance of nature in all its forms - and so many birds!!

Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Activities
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Activities
Maji Moto

We found this a really moving experience, to be welcomed and included in the family of the Maasai culture. See the Hotel review.

Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara

Our favourite Game park. Here we had some unique and special experiences. Seeing prides of lions close up, Cheetahs and their cubs, lion's hunting, Antelope and wildebeest in such large numbers, and then Wildebeest migrating across the R Mara. A wonderful God-given privilege.

Maasai Mara Game Drives
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Masai Mara

These game drives, as described in the Reserve description above, were facilities by Andrew our driver. His experience and expertise enables us to enjoy and have the experiences we had. Thank you Andrew.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
His skill to get us close to the action and to find the action - Thank you Andrew.
Transport
And Andrew's skill in driving a 4x4 across such rough country.
Lake Naivasha Activities
Lake Naivasha Activities
Kenya

WE enjoyed walking around with the animals - as a contrasting means fo transport!! Also the boat ride, with its sights of so many different s[ecies and the demonstration of the Fish Eagle swooping to catch its food! Incredible.

Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park

Elephants having fun, elephants keeping cool, young and old. Incredible animals. And also plenty to reflect on with the changing nature of the park and climate change.

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Oct 12, 2023
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, it was my pleasure to do everything possible to be sure your travels were enjoyable and memorable. We’ll pass along your good thoughts to Andrew, who definitely makes magic happen on safari! We’re also happy to hear that Maji Moto was a high point of your trip, to experience a real connection to the Maasai people of Kenya, and that the wide variety of activities made for a great journey. We will also take to heart the... Read more

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, it was my pleasure to do everything possible to be sure your travels were enjoyable and memorable. We’ll pass along your good thoughts to Andrew, who definitely makes magic happen on safari!

We’re also happy to hear that Maji Moto was a high point of your trip, to experience a real connection to the Maasai people of Kenya, and that the wide variety of activities made for a great journey. We will also take to heart the feedback you provided on some of the lodging, as we are always working with our partners to ensure the best accommodations.

It was a pleasure to work with you and we appreciate your trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the near future with more trips to East Africa (Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda) or any other part of the world!

Best wishes for your future travel journeys.

Ashe oleng (Many Thanks in Maasai language)
Joseph

We had a great experience in Kenya and South Africa
Kenya | Aug 9 - Aug 17, 2023

R
rebecca h.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023
We had a great experience in Kenya and South Africa. Joseph did a very good job finding a driver (Alex) and booking us in a lovely and comfortable hotel (the Fairview). Our driver Alex drove very safely. The only glitch was that he was not present when we arrived at the airport, and that is a key moment to be on time and in the right place. Our time in Lake Nakuru was fabulous (love Camp Mbweha), and Alex did a great job connecting us to tours at Lake Naivasha. We really enjoyed our hike in... Read more

We had a great experience in Kenya and South Africa. Joseph did a very good job finding a driver (Alex) and booking us in a lovely and comfortable hotel (the Fairview). Our driver Alex drove very safely. The only glitch was that he was not present when we arrived at the airport, and that is a key moment to be on time and in the right place. Our time in Lake Nakuru was fabulous (love Camp Mbweha), and Alex did a great job connecting us to tours at Lake Naivasha. We really enjoyed our hike in Karura Forest and highly recommend the cafe there. Thankfully we ended up with a guide there (David), and he was able to provide some fascinating info about the Mau Mau caves.

Our time in Cape Town and its environs was terrific. We had a very safe and knowledgeable driver and guide, Graham. The tours we did were very well planned although I did more of the planning for our time at St. George's Cathedral.

There were some details that were oddly off (a dinner was scheduled for when we were flying), and I would have appreciated a more detailed itinerary with more explanations. We also were not informed until the day before we left that all of our transfers to the airport were not included in the package (although the cost for an Uber was reimbursed to us). Even so, overall, the trip was a wonderful success.

Hotel Reviews
Fairview Hotel, Nairobi
Nairobi

The grounds of this hotel are beautiful, and the staff is very friendly. The breakfast was delicious, and we had two great meals in the restaurants. The rooms are simple, but comfortable. My only concern would be that the hotel doesn't have a/c, and if the weather had been hot, we would not have enjoyed our stay as much.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The only reason I did not give 5 stars is due to the hotel not having a/c. We didn't need it during our stay in August.
Mbweha Camp
Nairobi - Kenya

This camp is absolutely lovely. The service is fabulous, and the rooms were very comfortable. The food was delicious. We also had a wonderful experience taking a night safari.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Commodore Hotel
Cape Town

This is a very comfortable hotel with friendly staff. It's a bit hustle-bustle, but it's in a great location. Our rooms were very comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious. We ate at the restaurant one evening and were delighted at the quality of the food.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Dine at GOLD Restaurant
Dine at GOLD Restaurant
Cape Town

This restaurant provides a unique experience. We really enjoyed the celebration of African culture and cuisine. The service was quite off, but we attribute that to having a new server.

Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Oct 13, 2023

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, we’re happy to hear you enjoyed the blend of activities and locations and we will pass along your kind words for our drivers Alex and Graham. We have also taken note of your feedback on where things were not up to your expectations and assure you that we will be looking into where we can do better on all counts.

Best wishes for your future travel journeys, with thanks,
Joseph