Exploring Kenya with Angama
I recently had the privilege of joining one of Angama’s educational trips, one that will forever be etched into my memory, as this was the first time travelling to Kenya. A destination I have longed to visit all my life. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to work in an industry where work can be going to visit some of the most incredible destinations in Africa. We do this to ensure that the offerings align with the needs of our guests. The Angama properties certainly tick all the boxes.
Our first stop was the brand-new Angama Amboseli. I was struck by the common threads which can be found throughout all the Angama properties. The two of these which stood out the most to me are the settings one finds the camps in and then the company’s unwavering commitment to conservation. The views of Mount Kilimanjaro from every angle in the Amboseli lodge were breathtaking. From lounging on a pool cushion to sipping a G&T around the fire in the evening, you are constantly in the presence of the awe-inspiring view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Now throw in one of the last few remaining big tuskers in front of the mountain on a clear day and you have one of the most majestic scenes, every photographer’s dream and a rare occasion for most. I was inspired too by the incredible work Angama are doing in the conservation space. They are working tirelessly to preserve and expand the wilderness spaces in Kenya. The concession Angama Amboseli is on is in the middle of a natural corridor where elephants and other animals move through in the changing of the seasons. They typically move from Amboseli National Park through the Angama Amboseli Sanctuary and on to Chyulu Hills, finally finding themselves in Tsavo National Park. We had an incredible two days exploring this 5700-acre sanctuary and gathering an understanding of the objectives Angama Amboseli are trying to achieve.
Our next stop was in the Maasai Mara, where we enjoyed some time at Angama Mara. A short hour long charter flight had us soaring above the endless plains of the Maasai Mara, spotting the big 5 from the air on our approach. A phenomenal start to our Mara journey. I was lost for words as I walked onto the Angama Mara deck – it is almost impossible to express the feeling you get when you get sight of the endless plains from atop the escarpment where the lodge is situated. The warmth one receives from the team there as you enter Angama makes you feel like you have known them for years, you immediately feel like you are part of the Angama family. Aside from the incredible game drives from down below, the lodge has a host of activities one can enjoy. From the beading studio to birding walks with the local guide Shumbur, to lunches in their village garden and picnics overlooking the plains. If those don’t appeal, then the other option is gracefully floating across the plains of the Mara in a hot air balloon, something I would encourage every guest to experience.
Our last stop of the Angama properties was the Angama Safari Camp. This camp moves throughout the year, ensuring only the best locations. We were fortunately positioned on the banks of the Mara River during our stay. The mobile camp offers everything one needs to enjoy a very comfortable safari. This camp allows you to really feel at one with the wilderness whilst still providing those “finer things”. Angama Safari Camp was an absolute highlight for me. With exclusive use – you feel like you are the only people in the park – a rare sensation in the Maasai Mara.
If you are thinking of travelling to Kenya, I really hope you consider travelling to one if not all of these camps during your time. You will not be disappointed.
