Here is how the initial conversation with our safari guide, Ben Naurori, played out once we met him at the airstrip in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Ben: “What would you like to see while you are here in Maasai Mara?”
Linnie and Kel: “What do you mean? What is there to see? I guess like a lion, a giraffe, a zebra…we definitely want to learn about the Maasai culture and history, too.”
Ben: “Most people show up and demand to see the Migration, a kill, or a hard-to-find animal like the leopard.”
Linnie and Kel: ”That’s weird. People demand to see a kill? That is the last thing we want to witness. We just want to see whatever we see. We are here to learn.”
Ben: “Then, you will see everything because you come with an open heart.”
And, at that, he was correct… almost like he willed it to happen. We saw it all: the incredible migration, the elusive leopard– time and time again, a family of cheetahs, a Serval cat, elephants, hyenas, a rhino, giraffes, every single animal and bird living on that ancient land, and unfortunately, even a kill (I cried). Honestly, Ben is a “retired” Maasai warrior who calls himself a junior elder now and has a genuine appreciation and respect for his birthplace and all the living creatures inhabiting the land. I cannot tell you how hard he works to provide visitors with an incredible experience, and his knowledge of every animal and plant species is uncanny. He is an expert in his field, a true storyteller, and he exudes a magical sense of love for what he does. It is infectious and inspiring. I felt like we made a friend in Ben. So, if you travel to Kenya and dream of lions and rhinos and zebras ( oh my), reach out to Ben Naurori to make that dream come true, but remember to come with an open heart! You can reach Ben via email at [email protected].
Love the video! Looks amazing!
Thank you!