See Part 1 for Cats, Birds, and Ellies!
Amboseli spoiled us a bit, as we were not expecting to see as much as we did. Including some dik-diks, which were totally unexpected but very much appreciated!
Interestingly, Tortilis Camp does have an electric fence surrounding it. It’s the first time I’ve seen a fenced camp in Africa–usually you are escorted back to your tent after dark with a guard. I’m not one of those people who is scared that something is going to crawl into my tent…unless that something is a black mamba, in which case, the fence doesn’t do any good anyway! In large part I think this fence is also for their garden, as they grow much of their produce on site. I don’t imagine that keeping African animals (or any animals for that matter) out of a large garden is an easy task.
One of the benefits of the fencing is the population of dik-diks, which tend to stick around the camps knowing they are safer! Ever shy and elusive, dik-iks aren’t spotted super frequently in the wild, and rarely long enough to get more than a glimpse. They are the most adorable little animals, and ever since our first trip to Tanzania, I wanted to see more dik-diks. Well, these little creatures were everywhere. They liked to go under our tent, actually, and dear husband got some very adorable pictures of them.
Look at Those Giant Eyes and Huge Ears! My Favorite Deer
Obviously any trip to Africa would not be complete without giraffes. I had forgotten that giraffes do not have vocal cords! Yet another animal that is so much fun to watch stride, in huge steps, along the African savanna.
I don’t know why I try to describe these animals sometimes, pictures are much, much better than words.
Now, I will readily admit that sundowners happen to be one of–or maybe my most–favored activity on safari. Actually, probably in life. I mean, I love Tusker (or other local beer for that matter). I love watching animals. And I’ve even learned after 30 years to enjoy watching the sunset (only in Africa, though. I’m not THAT old yet). Could you ever get tired of this view?
DH Was Too Sick to Make Fun of My Cactus Hat
Mom (AKA The Enabler), Me, and DH Enjoying Sundowners.
And Tortilis camp is great at sundowners, as most camps are. Some appetizers, enough Tusker for all, and chairs for the view. Unfortunately, dear husband also got sick that day, so he had to stick to Fanta, no food, and obviously was not quite enjoying himself! If you know Jeff, you know any day he passes on food and beer is not a good day. I’m happy to say he had plenty of sundowners at Leleshwa, the next camp, to make up for it.
All in all, Amboseli was an excellent choice (and there is always Tsavo for the next trip!) and Tortilis was a great starting point for our trip to Kenya. It’s a solid selection for accommodation, with decent food (much grown there and fresh made pasta), a great staff, clean and upkept tents, and a fantastic location. Definitely plenty of luxury, and there are villas with private plunge pools if that’s your style (no, we didn’t stay in those).
Amboseli, while small, certainly packed a large punch of wildlife and was most definitely worth the 3-night stay.
