Feedback on the Maasai Mara Safari, Kenya

In the spotlight, Life as a Globetrotter

A horse riding safari in some of Africa’s best big game country has to be THE polar opposite of Covid lockdowns! It’s just one of the many reasons we’re busting to get back to the Maasai Mara. But globetrotter Elliott Sumers beat us to it! And going by his feedback, it was the trip of a lifetime. Take a look:

Please tell us how happy you were with this Globetrotting holiday.
Overall, this was an outstanding adventure travel experience. The entire trip from the pick up at our hotel at the start to the drop off at the end was professionally run. The trip was challenging, entertaining, enlightening and a ton of fun. The accommodations and meals were excellent, the horses and tack were perfect and the guiding was superb.

Were there any stand-out experiences (good or bad) with the accommodation that you would like to mention?
The camps were wonderful. The tents and bedding were very comfortable and nicely equipped. The staff did a great job setting up the camp. The laundry service was excellent. The showers were hot and the volume of water was adequate.

Were there any stand-out experiences (good or bad) with the meals that you would like to mention?
The food was bountiful, delicious and pleasing to the eye. We loved every meal (except perhaps the fish spread appetizer…). Frankly, I’m amazed I didn’t gain weight!

Which horse(s) did you ride? And would you mind elaborating as to why you were happy/unhappy with them?
I rode Alfredo, who was very willing and had a smooth canter. He did all of the entries and exits of the many gullies gently, but without hesitation. He’s a wonderful horse.

In respect to your guides, please elaborate as to their level of service, knowledge of the environment and hospitality.
Simon is perhaps the most gifted trip leader I’ve ever met, and I have taken dozens of hiking, cycling and kayaking trips, and multiple African safaris. He’s extremely capable and professional and made us feel quite safe on horseback and in camp. He’s a great naturalist, a wonderful host and raconteur and projects an infectious enthusiasm for the adventure.
Miranda was a huge plus on the trip. She is a fabulous rider and helped make everyone feel secure during the wildlife encounters. She is a natural hostess, funny, inclusive, kind and helpful.

Did you have a favourite day or experience while on your Globetrotting holiday?
The lion and elephant encounters on horseback were extraordinary. They were exhilarating, but we felt safe. We loved the long canters on the open plains, and crossing the Mara just downstream from the crocodiles was amazing. Everyday was different and wonderful. The vehicle game viewing was on par or better than any of our other safari trips. The chance to go off road, even at night, and to sit up out of the vehicle was amazing. Our tracker Nettie did a fantastic job and enhanced our ability to see the game both on horses and on foot. We particularly liked the chance to see the wildlife with very few, if any, other vehicles in our presence.

In terms of value-for-money, how would you rate this particular ride?
Excellent.

Do you have any further comments or suggestions?
Our transfer driver Felix did a great job and should be commended. The Four Points by Sheraton is an excellent spot to rest and recover, with a great pool.
The staff at the camp did an amazing job – up to polishing our boots on a daily basis.

If exploring the Maasai Mara on horseback sounds like your kind of holiday, check out all the details on the ride page!