QA
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Naoimi Kebbono is a master of her craft, she turns every trip into a seamless, unforgettable story.
A Journey of Triumph and Discovery: My NCLEX Adventure in Nairobi
The afternoon I arrived in Nairobi, I was filled with a mix of nerves and excitement. I had flown thousands of miles to take my NCLEX exam in the vibrant heart of Kenya, knowing that the outcome of this test would determine the next chapter of my nursing career. The city was bustling, full of life and color, and I couldn't help but feel the weight of what lay ahead. But beyond the exam, Nairobi had so much to offer, and I had already made plans to explore after the test.
The day of the exam arrived, and though my heart raced, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that this moment was the culmination of years of hard work. The exam center was well-organized, and the staff made sure I felt comfortable despite my nerves. I entered the exam room with focus, and as I sat down, I knew that this test, though daunting, was simply the next step in a journey I had already begun.
Hours later, when I finally clicked "Submit," there was a mix of relief and uncertainty. I left the exam center not knowing the result but knowing I had done my best. The only thing I wanted now was to explore Nairobi, to shake off the tension and immerse myself in the natural beauty the city had to offer. And little did I know, the adventure that awaited would be just as memorable as the exam itself.
My first stop was Nairobi National Park, a place where the wild meets the city. Just a few miles from the skyscrapers, I found myself surrounded by vast open plains, dotted with giraffes, zebras, and the occasional lion lounging in the sun. The contrast of wildlife against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline was surreal. I stood there for a long time, taking it all in—the sounds, the sights, the thrill of being so close to animals in their natural habitat. It was like stepping into another world, one that made me feel small but infinitely connected to the earth.
Same day, I visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for orphaned elephants, and it quickly became one of the most heartwarming moments of my trip. The baby elephants, with their oversized ears and playful personalities, stole my heart. I watched as they drank milk from giant bottles, their trunks playfully wriggling with excitement. The staff at the trust shared stories of these elephants’ journeys, how they had been rescued from poaching or other dangers, and were now being nurtured to return to the wild. It was a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of nature, and I left feeling deeply moved by the experience.
But my adventures didn’t stop there. The Giraffe Center was next on my list, and it was like stepping into a dream. I had the chance to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes, their long necks leaning down to take the food from my hand. The sheer gentleness of these magnificent creatures left me in awe. Their soft eyes and graceful movements were a calming contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.
By the time I returned to my hotel, the weight of the NCLEX exam felt like a distant memory. The city, the wildlife, the energy, and the sense of peace that came from being surrounded by nature had grounded me. It was as if the universe had conspired to offer me a perfect balance—work and play, challenge and reward.
When the moment of truth finally arrived, I checked my results on November 17, 2025—and I passed! The relief and joy that washed over me were indescribable, but deep down, I knew the true reward of this journey wasn’t just in the success of the exam. It was in the experiences, the memories I had made, and the reminder that life is a blend of hard work and moments of wonder.
Nairobi had given me the chance to not only achieve my professional goal but also to reconnect with nature, to witness the beauty of life in all its forms. And as I boarded my flight back home, I knew that this trip would forever be etched in my heart, as the one where I passed my NCLEX and experienced the wild soul of Nairobi. Thank you so much Mara Wanderlust specially Naomi💞
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great driver! Exceptional knowledge of the safari!
Our drivers Name was John and he did an amazing job! We saw so many animals and he was so knowledgeable about all of the animals.
DK
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Very easily accesible with very quick replies!
Very easy to communicate with. Replies to mails in an instant.
Expensive to enter the parks but it is worth every dollar to get so close to the animals in the Wild.
The trip includes a lot of time on the roads, but the scenery is spectacular, in cities or in the countryside.
Our driver was reliable and experienced.
LT
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
reliable and safe
The tour was great, we saw everything we wanted, we lived in good conditions, we didn't get sick, we didn't get food poisoning. We are satisfied with everything.
Special thanks to our guide James (Bond) :D , Cool guy, great guide.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Victor was incredible during our visit. An extended member of the Maclachlans family
On day 1 Victor came to meet us at the hotel and explain our plans for forward travel the following day.
08:00 on day 1 we left Arusha and headed to Tarangiere national park. It was a very smooth journey as we arrived at the park ~2 hours later.
The park was amazing - exactly as we imagined. Victors knowledge and care was first class.
Afterwards we made the journey to our accommodation at Eileen’s Trees - again it was an extremely warm welcome from the staff and victor explained the plans for day 2.
At 08:00 on day 2 we met Victor and we headed off on a shorter drive to Lake Manyara, what we didn’t expect was this safari to be completely different. The animals we seen were different and very close and personal. Elephants were our highlight, appearing out of the forests. Victors knowledge and attention to detail to maximise our experience shone through again.
Day 3 would be our highlight. We met at 07:00 and headed to Ngorongoro national park. The view point for the park is incredible. Goosebumps all round on seeing the incredible view. Victor shared the story on how this crater was created. Again sharing his vast knowledge. As we entered the crater we were immediately welcomed by a very rare cat sighting before heading off for another rare sighting of 3 black rhinos.
What shown through for all 3 days was Victors love for his job. He became our tour guide, family member and chief photographer - capturing some amazing photographs.
During last night in Eileen’s tree house - Victor joined us for dinner. Unbeknown to us, he had arranged for the staff to bake a cake and present it in traditional fashion to my wife for her 40th birthday. This was an amazing experience and showed the care and compassion Victor had for our family.
Day 4 - we headed back to Arusha but on the way stoppped off at a Massai village for an unforgettable experience.
The whole safari surpassed our expectations and Victor played a massive part in us enjoying it
IN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Had a fantastic time with Semadep, highly recommend
My family and I had a wonderful time with Semadep. They offer one of the most authentic tour experiences you can get. They drove us around every day, went out of their way to help us get great photo opportunities, provided a comfortable stay, cooked delicious food, danced and talked with us, and truly made us feel at home. Kenneth is a fantastic host.
We had an amazing time and we already miss them. When we visit Kenya again, we will definitely travel with them.
Thank you for all the beautiful memories, Team Semadep.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Thuba was a great tour guide and made the tour very fun!!
Cuckoo Safaris was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it. It was lovely to have someone guiding through the Victoria Falls track and telling you about its history.
IE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
CR
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing experience and service
The Safari booking service goes beyond expectations. Detail and experience oriented these team is unbelievable!!!