Kenya is truly magical.

And she knows it. So much so, that the words, “Magical Kenya” are emblazoned just outside the airport. And to make such a bold claim, I was anxious to see if this African gem would truly live up to its claim.

After three airports, four flights, one lengthy layover…and a toddler, we were so excited to settle into our Air BNB. It was after midnight in Nairobi when we arrived, but hunger and jet lag forced us to stop at a local gas station for pizza, chicken wings and fries.

After a peaceful night’s rest, we were refreshed, energized and ready to experience the magic of Kenya.

Day 1 – Brunch at Connect Coffee

For me, it’s always important to slow into my trips. So day ones are scarce with activity, but full of food and relaxation. We found this cute nearby coffee house where we enjoyed pancakes and waffles, freshly squeezed tropical juices, homemade breads and fruit.

Day 2 – Nairobi National Park

In Kenya, there is no shortage of safaris to enjoy. And the Nairobi National Park was definitely on the to-do list. It’s the only safari in Africa that’s located just outside of a major city, allowing you to simultaneously take in the beauty of the wildlife and the sunset over the city line. Our tour operator met us around midday for the hour-long drive. The sprawling national park greeted us with lush green pasture and sunshine and for a few minutes, we didn’t really see any animals. But after driving for about 15 minutes more, we spotted a buffalo and the most beautiful giraffes! Throughout our journey, more animals came out of hiding and we were able to gaze upon zebras, ostriches, gazelles, rhinos and even lions.

Days 3 & 4 – Mount Kilamanjaro and Amboseli National Park

Day three was a Sunday so we opted to get some rest and relaxation. We went to a brunch spot called “About Thyme,” and headed back to the apartment.

Several hours from where we stayed was another national park we wanted to visit – Amboseli National Park. To get the most out of day four, were up before the crack of dawn to make the four-and-a-half hour drive. On the way, our driver told us that we would pass the highest mountain in Africa; located in Tanzania. On a day when the clouds are at bay, the enormous Mount Kilamanjaro can be seen from Nairobi. And what a sight to behold. After some photo ops with the dormant volcano, we continued our trek to Amboseli to take in more animals. And I finally got to see some elephants!

Watch it on YouTube!

Days 5, 6 & 7 – Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Coffee Tour & Glamping

…and even more elephants! On day five we visited the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage where I took in all the floppy-eared giants my heart could take. We watched them dance, fed them, petted them and learned how they were rescued from some of the most dangerous conditions. Later that day we took in a coffee tour and sushi. On day seven, we got another early morning start to take a four-hour trek to picturesque Masai Mara.

Glamping Room Tour

Our third safari was at the Masai Mara National Park and for this one we decided to spend the night at the beautiful Mara Maisha Camp. After several delays getting there, the journey proved to be arduous and exhausting, so easing into the night and not rushing back to our apartment was the best idea. This actually ended up being one of the best experiences I had in Kenya because I got to go glamping for the first time! We literally slept inside tents, albeit beautifully decorated, that were pitched in the wild among nature’s fiercest beasts.

Day 8 – Hot Air Balloon Rides, Brunch In The Wild and Meeting The Masai Mara Tribe

We dabbled in Kenya’s magic for seven straight days, but on the eighth day we experienced it in all its splendor. To watch the sunrise over Nairobi’s Masai Mara National Park while zebras graze nearby and pilots fire up their hot air balloons, ready to take to the skies; this, this is the magic of Kenya. There were no words to explain what I saw, what my heart felt, what my soul witnessed as the sun poked its head above the horizon and balloons took off from every angle, quickly filling the skies. The girls stayed on ground and in our Jeep, followed the boys’ balloon to their landing. It was already an amazing experience to behold such beauty, but when our guide told us the hot air balloon tour ended with brunch in the wilderness, we couldn’t have imagined it would be as breathtaking as it was. Mimosas, a buffet of breakfast favorites, animals and nothing but open air surrounded us. These were the moments that confirmed; Kenya is the real Magic Kingdom.

The Masai Mara Tribe

Day 9 – Giraffe Center

I never cared much for giraffes before this trip. I’m an elephant lover at heart. But we saw so many giraffes in Kenya, I couldn’t help but marvel at their beauty…and fall in love! We visited Giraffe Center where we got to feed these long neck beauties, see them up close and personal and bank some amazing memories.

Day 10 – Market shopping and Nairobi Street Kitchen

Our flight home was scheduled to leave at 11pm, so that meant we had one more full day to take in Kenya. We spent it doing one of my favorite travel past times: shopping in the local market! We stocked up on souvenirs…and steps! I love how the color, vibes and energy of a city is so present in its cultural centers and markets. After shopping we headed to Nairobi Street Kitchen; an open air spot filled with restaurants, clothing and accessory stores and bars.

Kenya is the real Magic Kingdom!