Wild Wonders Await: Shobha’s Thrilling Kenya Safari with Thrillophilia
After retirement, everyone we knew suggested “classic” international destinations to us— Paris, London, New York, or perhaps Spain. But my husband and I? Well, we wanted something different, something that felt alive.
Truth be told, exploring Africa’s wild side was a daring move, but Thrillophilia’s Kenya packages made it feel just right. Suddenly, what seemed like an impossible adventure turned into the most thrilling decision of our lives.
And so, with hearts full of excitement and bags full of sunscreen, we set off for a journey that would prove to us, and maybe to everyone else, that the world is still ours to explore.
Chasing Wildlife at Nakuru
Our adventure began at Lake Nakuru in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, a place I had only seen in travel magazines. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by shimmering waters surrounded by lush greenery. I’ll never forget the game drive that followed…
Sitting in the safari jeep, we felt like kids again— excited, wide-eyed, and ready for anything. Our guide, a cheerful and knowledgeable man named Joseph, made the experience even better.
And as the jeep roared to life, the real magic began…
Within minutes, we spotted zebras grazing lazily, giraffes towering gracefully over the acacia trees, and flocks of flamingos turning the lake into a pink canvas- it was surreal. At one point, a group of baboons ran right across the path of our jeep, making us laugh as they playfully squabbled with each other. My husband, camera in hand, turned into a child, clicking photos at every opportunity.
The real thrill, though, came when Joseph pointed out a lioness lounging under a tree. “Look closely,” he whispered, and there, barely visible in the grass, were her cubs. Watching them play was a moment I’ll never forget. It was wild, raw, and beautiful— everything we had hoped for.
The Maasai Mara Safari
If Lake Nakuru was a dream, Maasai Mara was an epic adventure. The drive to the reserve itself was an experience— vast open plains stretched endlessly, dotted with lone trees and occasional herds of animals. It felt like stepping into a National Geographic documentary.
The Maasai Mara was different from Lake Nakuru in every way— bigger, bolder, and brimming with life.
On our first safari here, we were lucky enough to witness a herd of elephants walking majestically, their sheer size and presence leaving us in awe. The highlight, though, was spotting a cheetah. It sat perched on a small mound, scanning the horizon with a quiet intensity. Watching it up close, knowing how fast and powerful it could be, sent chills down my spine.
There was one moment, however, that tested us. During one of the game drives, my husband’s back began to ache, and I felt a little overwhelmed by the bumpy roads. For a moment, we wondered if we had bitten off more than we could chew.
But Joseph, ever the helpful guide, reassured us and adjusted the pace of the safari. We took a short break under a shady tree, sipped on some water, and laughed it off. The truth is, we were in the middle of Maasai Mara— one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. There was no room for complaints, only gratitude.
The Scenic Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
From the untamed wilderness of Maasai Mara, we made our way to the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha. Compared to the prior thrilling activities, the boat ride here was calm and peaceful. As we glided over the waters, surrounded by floating lily pads and chirping birds, it felt as though time had slowed down. We spotted hippos peeking curiously from the water and watched birds soar above us.
That night, we joined our travel group for a special dinner around a bonfire. My husband and I were the oldest in the group, but the energy and warmth made us feel right at home. Surrounded by youngsters, we found ourselves sharing stories— how we met, our life together, and why we chose Kenya for this trip.
They listened with wide smiles, and someone joked that we were “relationship goals.” It made us laugh, but it also warmed my heart. We ate delicious grilled food, sipped on soup, and enjoyed the crackling of the fire under a star-studded sky.
A Heartfelt Ending
Looking back now, I can’t help but smile. Kenya was everything we didn’t know we needed— wild, thrilling, and soul-stirring. From the pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru to the golden sunsets of Maasai Mara, every moment felt like a scene from a storybook. The boat rides, the bonfires, the laughter, and even the bumpy roads— all of it has become a part of us.
We returned home with more than just memories. At a small market near Lake Naivasha, my husband had insisted on buying me a beautiful handmade beaded necklace. “Something to remember this trip by,” he said. Now, every time I wear it, I’m reminded of the adventure we dared to take.
To anyone wondering if age should stop you from exploring the world, let me tell you— it doesn’t matter. The thrill of travel, the joy of new experiences, and the beauty of sharing it all with someone you love— these things have no age limit.
Kenya was our bold decision, and thanks to Thrillophilia, it turned into the journey of a lifetime. If you’re looking for a destination that will take your breath away, pack your bags for Kenya. Adventure is waiting!
Read More: Thrillophilia Kenya Reviews