More Than a Safari: Our 13-Day Small Group Authentic African Adventure in Kenya

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Choosing an authentic African adventure in Kenya is intimidating. You want to work with the right operator, ensuring both authenticity and value. You want quality, but without overspending. Most importantly, you want an experience that doesn’t feel commercialized, and one where your tourism dollars positively impact the local community and environment. That’s why I chose to work with SKYIN to manage my first small group trip to east Africa. Their approach focuses on sustainable, culturally immersive travel, and they are incredibly easy to work with to curate meaningful, custom journeys.

I chose an amazing 13-day itinerary that checked all my boxes, and then gathered up my group of ten travelers, myself included, of all ages and from all over the U.S. — from our late 30s up to early 70s. Some joined the trip completely solo, knowing no one, and others joined with a friend or two, but we all left with new friendships and amazing memories. 

It was all of our first times in Kenya, and we had some idea of what was in store, but not really what to expect. Upon our arrival, we were whisked off to our homestays, where we would spend five out of 13 nights of our trip living with local families. This was my vision for our journey — not just to witness Kenya’s beauty and wildlife, but to immerse ourselves in the everyday lives and walk away with greater understanding of the people who call this place home. We truly wanted an authentic African adventure in Kenya, not just something ordinary. 

Day 1: Nairobi – a gentle arrival and homestays

Our first day was all about meeting our host families and beginning our immersion into Kenyan life. After arriving in Nairobi, each traveler was transferred to our respective homestays, where we would experience the warmth and hospitality of our local families.

It was a welcome worth its weight in gold! 

Depending on the size of travelers’ groups, SKYIN offers the option of a homestay, which all my travelers opted for; but for travelers who would be more comfortable in a hotel, there is an alternative of a 4- or 5-star hotel. These are some important things to consider, especially when budgeting for as big of a trip as Africa. 

My homestay mama, Mama Joy, was the most amazing cook with the biggest heart. Little did I know our time together (and her cooking!) would turn out to be one of the highlights of my authentic African adventure in Kenya.

Day 2: Orphaned elephants & giraffe tongues

Our first day of excursions! We began with a visit to the world-famous Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an organization in Nairobi committed to African elephant conservation and anti-poaching.

There, orphaned elephants and rhinos are cared for and eventually reintroduced into the wild. Watching these babies bottle-feed, roll in mud, and climb over each other was such a tender experience! 

Later, we made our way to the Giraffe Centre, established in 1979 as a breeding center for the endangered Rothschild giraffe — a species once on the brink of extinction with fewer than 150 animals left in the wild.

There, we shared the joy of feeding them alfalfa pellets from our hands. Giraffe tongues are surprisingly soft! We all couldn’t stop smiling.

Later, we returned to our homestays. It wasn’t just the food (cooked with so much love) or the warm beds — it was the stories, the laughter around the table, and the way we were made to feel like part of their family.

“They were so welcoming, hospitable and just wonderful people that made our stay even more memorable,” said Klavdia, one of our group members. 

Day 3: Maasai village – joy, connection & cultural immersion

Today was one of the highlights of the trip for all involved. We visited a real Maasai village, where we were adorned in checkered shúkàs and beadwork by the women, welcomed by children who were enthralled by our phones and cameras, and invited into homes to witness daily life.

The Maasai people are a semi-nomadic ethnic group native to southern Kenya and northern Tanzania, with a rich oral tradition passed down through generations. They’re known for their rituals and ceremonies, and their unique social structure. 

The village chief and his step brothers (Maasai elders) spoke candidly about their traditions with us — the roles of men and women, polygamy, and pastoralism. There was no performance, just pride and openness.

We ended the day dancing together — a moment of shared joy and rhythm that transcended language. A little girl in a red dress took my hand and didn’t let go. She walked with me, giggled with me, and insisted on taking selfies — love emanating from her little soul. Words cannot describe the pure way we were all embraced and welcomed. 

Dee Dee later said: “The highlight of the trip was spending a day with the Maasai tribe… sharing moments I’ll treasure forever.”

Day 4: Mombasa – coastal heat and Swahili culture

We boarded a plane to the coast, heading to Kenya’s second-largest city: Mombasa. The climate changed quickly to humid and hot!

We explored Fort Jesus, a historic Portuguese fort and museum, wandered through Old Town and all its beautiful Omani doors, toured local markets and bought spices and fresh fruits, and learned about the Arab-African history of this region. 

Finally, we arrived at the beautiful 5-star Swahili Beach Resort to enjoy a well-earned rest, where we would spend the next three nights. This was one of my favorite hotel stays throughout our authentic African adventure in Kenya. 

Day 5: A day of rest

We caught up on sleep, lounged on the beach, shopped at the nearby art galleries, and went for massages at the resort spa… taking care to steer clear of the monkeys!

Day 6: Indian Ocean blues

We boarded a traditional boat and traveled to Wasini Island, stopping to snorkel in the Indian Ocean and watch dolphins frolic along the way. Then, we enjoyed a traditional Swahili lunch on the island. 

On our return, we visited the sobering Shimoni Slave Caves, which were used as holding pens for slaves before they were transported to the Americas, the Caribbean, and other parts of the world in the 19th century — a powerful and somber reflection on the horrors of the slave trade.

As Lisa put it, “This trip was deeply spiritual and transformative.”

Day 7: Mijikenda tribe – Drums, dance, and deep welcomes

From Mombasa, we visited another tribe deep in the Kaya Sacred Forest, this time the Mijikenda people — known for their rituals, music, and spirituality. We were greeted with song, drumming, and vibrant dancing, then invited to participate. This truly made us feel like we were on an authentic African adventure in Kenya as the cultural immersion brought us so much joy. 

We observed a traditional wedding ceremony and a fortune telling, learned about herbal medicines from the land, and tried our hand at grinding dinner, again struck by the open-hearted joy of everyone we met.

Afterwards, we spent the night at the lovely 4-star Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort.

John shared, “Thank you again for making this such a wonderful experience I will always cherish.”

Day 8: Transition – back to Nairobi

We flew back to Nairobi and were taken back to our homestays, preparing ourselves for the next phase: safari! The shift in energy was palpable for the main event — we were all ready. I went to bed hoping that our authentic African adventure in Kenya would be completed by seeing the big 5!

Day 9: Lake Nakuru National Park – flamingos, rhinos & a tunnel of lions

Today, we drove to Lake Nakuru, known for its flamingos, expansive salt lake, dense forested areas, and rare Rothschild’s giraffes. The park is also home to both black and white rhinos — we saw both — as well as Cape buffalo, hyenas, zebras, and baboons.

We joked that our lodge’s name, the 4-star Sarova Lion Hill, was more than apt: lions were known to nap in the drainage tunnel under the road near the gate. Karen said, “The safari was very exciting… the guides managed the challenging driving with finesse and shared their vast knowledge.”

Day 10: Maasai Mara – the crown jewel

After breakfast, we made our way to the Maasai Mara National Park and checked into the 5-star Sarova Mara Camp. Maasai Mara is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, and for good reason; rolling plains, golden grass, dramatic skies — it was like a scene out of the Lion King! We saw elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, and lions, including a male and a female “on honeymoon.”

I had borrowed a zoom lens for my time on this authentic African adventure in Kenya — and I’ll never go on a safari without one again. It was like having binoculars and a camera in one. Being able to zoom in made all the difference.

Day 11: A Finale in the sky

On our final full day on safari, the entire group opted for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Mara River. Floating above the world as the sun rose and spotting animals moving beneath us was pure majesty. A hot air balloon rise is a MUST on any authentic African adventure in Kenya. After landing, we were treated to a champagne bush breakfast with made-to-order eggs and all the fixins’, and traveled deep into the park chasing as much wildlife as possible. 

I was asked why I decided to organize my group trip to Kenya in January (vs. during the Great Migration, which takes place in the summer), and here’s why:

• More attainable pricing and availability (the Great Migration is PEAK!)
• Less competition on the roads and in the parks for viewing (quieter, but equally rewarding!)
• It’s baby season! Ideal for witnessing calves and other grazing offspring
• It’s warm and sunny in January, and typically dry (meaning sparser vegetation)

And here’s the thing — there’s really no “bad” time to go on safari, as each season offers something different. It is, however, important to plan early for any African safari to ensure popular activities aren’t booked. 

Linda called it “a stunning safari… beyond expectation.”

Day 12: Saying goodbye

Today, we returned to Nairobi for our final day. At our farewell lunch, everyone shared their favorite moments of the trip — and the standout experience echoed by everyone seemed to be a toss-up between the tribal visits, the homestays, and the safari! 

As I told the group that night, it meant so much to me to see everyone embrace the adventure, leave their comfort zones, and to see a bond form that only a shared experience and memories can make. 

Then, at each of our homestays, we enjoyed one last night together, full of fellowship, food, and friendship. 

Day 13: Departures

Each of us were picked up and transported to the airport for our respective flight times — whether back home or to continue the adventure.

“Kenya impressed me so much. This trip was more than I could ever have dreamed of. Thank you for giving me literally… ‘A life changing trip!’” said Toni.

Reflections

For me, this group trip was so much more than a vacation. It was a reminder of how travel can open us, connect us, and teach us. Kenya gave us beauty, yes — but also wisdom, depth, and a new appreciation for what we had. We saw majestic creatures in the wild. We danced and drummed and shared meals. We navigated traffic and rough roads, lost luggage (mine — thank God for travel insurance!), and practiced patience for delays and changes. And we did it together.

My heart is full. Africa truly is the adventure of a lifetime. 

To my travelers: thank you for your joy, your openness, and your presence. You made this journey. And to anyone reading who feels called to something like this… stay tuned. I’m already dreaming up the next one!

As Dee Dee summed it up beautifully: “This trip will be etched in my heart and soul forever. I highly recommend the SKYIN team for anyone looking for an authentic, enriching, immersive experience in beautiful Kenya.”

Would you join me if I hosted another group trip to Kenya? Or maybe you’d like to create a custom family or small group journey of your own? I’d love to help make it happen.

Let’s start planning your authentic African adventure in Kenya  Reach out when you’re ready to experience the wild, the soulful, the unforgettable magic of Kenya.

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BTA Travel Coach and Advisor Julie Rose curates and markets small group trips, both co-ed and women-only, offering trips in destinations all over the world — at varying price points, focused both on wildlife and culture. Upcoming trips include 8 days in Turkey in September (women-only), 8 days in Egypt in October (women-only), and 9 days in Ecuador and the Galapagos (co-ed) in February 2026. Visit her website for more information and to sign up, and follow on Instagram or Facebook. 

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