Micato Safaris
Nov 17-28, 2013
“There was never another time like that first time in Africa.”
–The Snows of Kilimanjaro, Ernest Hemingway, 1936
It was with a heavy heart that I got on that airplane to leave Nairobi and Africa. My head was swimming with thoughts of all that I had seen and done on this amazing trip of a lifetime. Perhaps I should start at the beginning…
After several long flights, I arrived at Nairobi International airport exhausted, but very excited. This was my first trip to Africa. Since the arrivals terminal burned down this past July, they had set up a makeshift arrivals hall in a large parking garage. It was completely functional and I was relieved to see the Micato Safaris sign being held by a friendly face. From that moment on, I was well taken care of for the next 11 days. There began my incredible journey, or “safari” in Swahili. With our Micato duffles collected we headed out to meet our Safari Director, Tony Kaguathi–such a friendly face and warm smile in such a far away land.
Departing the airport we arrived at the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel. It is a lovely luxury hotel reminiscent of colonial days past. It played an integral role in the development of Kenya as a colony and later a country. The beautiful gardens are very well cared for and there are reminders of the past; an ox-wagon, rickshaw and various other transport vehicles of days gone by. I settled in to the very comfortable room, for a much needed rest.
Day 2 came with a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Orphanage. It was great seeing the orphaned elephants being cared for with the goal of releasing them back into the wild when they are ready. I highly recommend a visit to this world famous facility.
Later we were treated to lunch at the home of renowned jewelry designer Gemini Desai, or the “bead lady” as she is fondly known. She travels the world to find the beads she uses for her custom creations. She is extremely knowledgeable about the history and fabrication of many types of beads. It was very interesting.
Day 3 was also filled with education and wonder. First a visit to the Langata Giraffe Centre where I was able to hand feed a Rothschild giraffe and then a visit to the home of Karen von Blixen author of the book Out of Africa.
We were not yet finished with our events for the day. We then enjoyed lunch at the home of Felix and Jane Pinto founders and owners of Micato Safaris. What a refreshing afternoon visiting with such gracious hosts.
From the wonderful meal and discussion of how Micato began, to entertainment by the staff and a walk around the grounds, it was a truly enjoyable afternoon. It became very obvious that they really enjoy entertaining their safari guests. This is something that they do several times a week.
Days 4-5 began with a transfer to Wilson Regional Airport for our bush flight to Samburu National Reserve.
We arrived at Samburu Oryx Airstrip and were met by our Micato Land Rovers and drivers, and of course we were greeted with smiling faces and warm hand towels. And Tony, our safari director was with us the whole way. We set out on our very first game drive in Africa en route to Larsen’s Tented Camp.
I wish that I could put a picture in of the many hundreds of game animals and exotic birds that we saw. I would be happy to send anyone that wants it, a link to all of my photos. I was not using a real high end camera, but I was pleased with the photographs I got.
Stay tuned for Part 2…
Wanda Frecks
Vacation Specialist, Carefree Vacations
878 Eastlake Parkway, Suite 1011 | Chula Vista, CA | Toll-Free: (800) 266-1167
Direct Line: (619) 591-7209 | E-mail: wfrecks@carefreevacations.com
Tags: Adventure, Africa, Luxury, luxury travel, micato safaris, Nature, Safari, travel, Wildlife
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