Kenya - Together We Are One

Overview

"Karibu" - Welcome! Kenya is a land of breathtaking landscapes, deep cultural traditions, and a spirit of unity. From the vast plains teeming with life on the Maasai Mara to the intimate circles of women with whom we meet in Nairobi and the Mara, this journey is about connection, community, and conservation. “Sisi Ni Moja” means “Together We Are One”, a theme we experience at every step. Our adventure begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, where we stay at a charming boutique hotel that supports local education. Hiking the Tigoni tea fields and exploring Karen Blixen’s farm from Out of Africa give us a glimpse into colonial culture. At Ocean Sole, we witness how a plethora of discarded flip-flops are transformed by skilled woodcarvers into colorful art, supporting conservation and local artisans. Interacting with both endangered Rothschild’s giraffes at the Giraffe Center and orphaned elephants being rehabilitated at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust expose us to Kenya's intentional culture of conservation. We also experience the popular heartwarming tradition of the women’s Chamas circle, a powerful gathering where women support each other’s economic and social empowerment. Leaving Nairobi behind, we travel to the world-renowned Maasai Mara, home to the Great Migration and an abundance of wildlife. Our safari game drives bring us face-to-face with elephants, lions, cheetahs, zebras, and more in their natural habitat. At dawn, a hot air balloon ride over the savannah offers a breathtaking view of the golden plains, followed by breakfast in the wild. Beyond experiencing the the symbiosis of life on the Mara, we connect with its people, visiting with and purchasing from a local co-op of Maasai women who practice the traditional art of beading, sharing a project at a new Maasai school, and participating in a tree-planting initiative, leaving a lasting contribution to the community. Along the way, our women guides provide their own authentic perspectives. Maasai warriors also offers an intimate connection with nature on guided bush walks. Here, we learn about medicinal plants, track animal footprints, and gain a deeper respect for the land and its people. As our journey comes to a close, we reflect on the stories that have touched our hearts within this beautiful cultural exchange of sisterhood. Over a final dinner under the African sky, we celebrate the beauty of connection, knowing that Kenya has left an unforgettable mark of oneness on our souls.

Itinerary

We have thoughtfully designed this itinerary to immerse you in the beauty, culture, and wildlife of Kenya. We begin in Nairobi for two immersive days of modern Kenyan culture and community. Then on to the Maasai Mara and the Naboisho Conservancy for six unforgettable days of safari, cultural exchange, and conservation activities. Whether soaring over the savannah in a hot air balloon or walking alongside Maasai guides, this journey is one of deep connection and wonder. Please note that this itinerary is subject to change.

The day before your trip

Pre-trip

We invite you to read I Am Because We Are: African Wisdom in Image and Proverb as our trip book. Its stunning black and white photographs taken throughout Africa combine with related African proverbs to provide wise, and at times raw, insights behind the culture of oneness and community that capture Kenya’s spirit.

The book highlights the importance of proverbs in educating members of African societies on how to think, how to behave, and how to have a better life. It offers a powerful expression of African life and the universality of human emotions, ideas, and knowledge.

Also, we will host two Zoom calls with the trip group two months prior to departure. Come meet our HHJ trip hosts and fellow sisters with whom you experience this transformative adventure. Hear more about Kenyan culture, share trip goals, and get your questions answered.

DAY 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Nairobi

This is your day to arrive whenever it works for you.

A host will meet you at the airport and transport you to our lovely lodge in the Nairobi suburb of Karen (named after Karen Blixen of Out of Africa and situated near the coffee farm she owned).

Depending on your timing, we can provide ideas for optional sightseeing and arrange for a guide. Give yourself time to settle in and have the flexibility to arrange dinner on your own at or near our lodge.

DAY 2

Day 2 - Tigoni

It's time to stretch our legs and enjoy some fresh air after all that travel! The lush tea fields of Tigoni in the hills above Nairobi are our destination.

After a healthy hike, including waterfalls and tea fields with expansive views of Nairobi, a picnic lunch awaits. Here, we have plenty of time to relax, get to know each other, and enjoy an introduction to the authentic heartbeat of Kenyan culture, including their triumphs and challenges and the questions they're asking as times shift. (The tea industry, begun during colonial times, brings its own set of questions!)

DAY 3

Day 3 - Nairobi

Today is a full, immersive experience! We begin with a visit to Ocean Sole, where discarded flip-flops are transformed into vibrant works of art, supporting marine conservation and local artisans. Next, we step into history at Karen Blixen’s home, gaining insight into the life and legacy of the famed author of Out of Africa. Our journey continues at the Giraffe Center, where we’ll meet the endangered Rothschild giraffes up close, followed by a heartwarming visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where rescued orphaned elephants are nurtured back to the wild.

In the evening, we’ll join a women’s Chama, an intimate gathering in the community, to connect, share, and learn about the powerful role of collective support in women’s lives.

DAY 4

Day 4 - Masai Mara

After breakfast at our lodge, we experience the road transfer to Masai Mara (5+ hours), taking us through small rural towns, across the Great Rift Valley, and onto the Mara. Wait until you see your first giraffe above the treetops or lion stalking its prey!

A warm welcome awaits, and after some time to settle into your tent above the river, be ready for our first evening game drive. So much happens as the sun goes down!

Enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a group evening gathering around the fire.

DAY 5

Day 5 - Masai Mara

The morning is full of opportunity, including an optional balloon ride over the savannah at daybreak or a morning game drive as the animals awaken.

Today we visit with the Mamas at Enjoolata, the community center in Basecamp which hosts a local co-op of women beaders. We also engage in their tree-planting initiative, which focuses on reforesting the area, restoring natural habitats, and empowering the local Maasai community through sustainable conservation efforts.

Enjoy a late afternoon respite on your deck overlooking the savannah, and take time to reflect on the day with trip sisters over dinner hosted by our welcoming Kenyan hosts.

DAY 6

Day 6 - Saruni Eagle View

Today we transfer to the newly-renovated Eagle View Camp in the Naboisho Conservancy, a private wildlife conservancy located in the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Covering around 50,000 acres, it is one of the most successful community conservancies in Africa, balancing wildlife conservation with sustainable tourism and benefits for local Maasai communities. Tourism revenue directly supports conservation and community development.

Wait til you see the expansive views from our new home base! Then let’s head out for an evening game drive to explore our new surroundings.

DAY 7

Day 7 - Saruni Eagle View

A morning walking safari offers an intimate, ground-level exploration of the wilderness with expert Maasai guides who show us hidden surprises of the ecosystem, from animal tracks to medicinal plants.

This afternoon, enjoy the pool, read a book on your deck, visit more with each other today before a lively cooking class with Saruni Basecamp's lead chef. Be sure to check out his book on local cooking too!

Let's then gather around the fire for an intimate visit with our female Kenyan hosts. It's a rare opportunity to ask them honest questions about Maasai culture and to build bridges of understanding.

DAY 8

Day 8 - Saruni Eagle View

Today, we can track the morning routines of wild animal herds and Maasai shepherds with their cattle on the savannah as we make our way to a new local Maasai school. Smiling children await us as we bring interactive learning activities and simple improvements to their classrooms. Expect them to take your hand in theirs and lead you outside for singing and play. We leave with full hearts!

DAY 9

Day 9 - Saruni Eagle View

Take in the fullness of your final day in the conservancy as you wish. Join the early morning game drive, take a quiet morning to journal, or grab a dip in the pool.

Around a leisurely lunch, let's gather as a group to reflect on our time together, capturing the transformative insights, memories and relationships that we take home with us.

It’s Friday Kenya Night at Eagle View, which means traditional Kenyan fare and spirited Maasai dancing. It’s a perfect way to end an unforgettable experience!

DAY 10

Day 10 - Transfer to Nairobi

After a peaceful last morning at Eagle View, we fly back to Nairobi. This 45 minute flight includes spectacular views as life continues on the savannah.

Our familiar charming lodge in Karen welcomes us home for our final evening of reflection and celebration.

DAY 11

Day 11 - Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast on the terrace, then depart as needed. We will arrange for your airport transfer. You may even decide to stay on for further rest or exploration!

DAY 12

Continued Community

Your Honest Heart journey continues. We host a group call several weeks after we get home when all can share highlights and further insights. Our group WhatsApp is alive with updates, and it’s always fun to hear reports of trip sisters getting together on their own wherever they are!

Of course many plan further HHJ trips so they can continue to travel together and introduce friends to this growing community. And HHJ’s inspiration and community will continue to visit your in boxes and the pages of our Instagram and Facebook for you to stay connected!

The Experience

We Host Your Journey

This immersive journey blends cultural exchange with the rhythm of the savannah. We host our time in Nairobi, which is full and rewarding. When we move to the Mara and conservancy, we work each day with our Maasai guides to find balance between structure and spontaneity as they see ways to share their deep knowledge of the ever changing patterns of life on the land. Take time for your own inner journey—journal your reflections, seek insight from a guide, or share stories with local women. Around the fire or dinner table, we connect with our trip sisters, exploring themes from our book and meaningful conversations that naturally unfold.

Our Trip Book

They say a picture is worth 1000 words! I Am Because We Are: African Wisdom in Image and Proverb features 125 stunning black and white photographs by Betty Press taken throughout East and West Africa since 1987, combined with insightful related African proverbs compiled by Annetta Miller, an American born in Tanzania. The book highlights the importance of proverbs in educating members of African societies on how to think, how to behave, and how to have a better life. Press took these photographs with the goal of making a significant educational and artistic contribution to the appreciation and understanding of African culture and society as well as our own.

Adventure & Connection

Embark on exhilarating day and night safaris, hike the lush Tigoni Tea Fields, and feed gentle giraffes up close. Engage in a heartfelt Chama Circle, and try beading alongside the Mamas. Soar over the savannah in a breathtaking hot air balloon ride, then celebrate with the Maasai through dance and storytelling. Aside from our first day's hike through the tea fields, there is nothing strenuous to these engaging activities...unless you try to jump as high as the Maasai warriors!

Luxurious Wilderness Accommodations

In Nairobi, we stay at the charming and welcoming Acacia Lodge, a boutique hotel that not only offers comfort and hospitality but also supports local education and community initiatives. In the Maasai Mara, our newly renovated tented camps at Basecamp and Eagle View provide an immersive safari experience. Overlooking the river and expansive conservancy, these authentic yet luxurious tents offer stunning views of wildlife roaming freely. Wake to the soft glow of sunrise and the sounds of the savannah coming to life right outside your tent.

Fresh & Flavorful Cuisine

Kenyan cuisine is a vibrant fusion of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and rich culinary traditions. In Nairobi, we savor flavorful dishes that blend African, Indian, and European influences, from aromatic stews to perfectly grilled meats and chapati. On safari in the Maasai Mara, meals are a true farm-to-table experience, with ingredients harvested from the camp’s organic vegetable garden. Each dish—whether enjoyed under the stars at a bush dinner or in open-air dining—features a mix of familiar greens and beloved Kenyan staples. The garden, which also nurtures medicinal herbs and plants, reflects a deep commitment to sustainable farming and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Every meal is a celebration of fresh flavors, nourishing both body and spirit.

Warm & Vibrant February

Start the year with a sun-soaked escape to Kenya’s sweeping savannas, where clear skies and warm temperatures create prime conditions for wildlife viewing. As the short rains fade, animals move freely across the plains in search of water, making game drives all the more rewarding. It’s also the season of new life. Picture the Masai Mara dotted with young zebras and wildebeest, their wobbly legs struggling to keep up with their mothers. Predators like lions and cheetahs are close behind, turning the savanna into a theatre of survival. The Masai Mara Reserve and Mara Naboisho Conservancy host some of Africa’s highest predator concentrations, offering edge-of-your-seat drama. It’s a season that pulses with energy, full of new beginnings and raw, unforgettable moments.

Walk Gently, Connect Fully

Experiencing Kenya fully means caring for it deeply. Our partnership with Saruni Basecamp allows us to be part of something bigger—a vision where travel supports conservation, empowers local communities, supports women in leadership, and nurtures the wild beauty of this land. Let’s tread lightly, bring reusable essentials, and honor the people and places that welcome us so generously.

Packing Tips

For Kenya, pack lightweight neutral clothing with long sleeves and pants for sun and insect protection. Bring comfy walking shoes, a warm layer, rain jacket, hat or scarf, daypack, water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, meds, and a small first aid kit. A camera, binoculars, and a Type G travel adapter (240V) are handy. Credit cards are widely accepted, but some USD or Kenyan shillings are useful. We will provide a detailed packing list in the trip planning guide. We recommend packing light!

Hosts

Jen and Terry formed a deep sisterhood while supporting students at a US boarding school within the last decade. After Jen’s first trip to South Africa, Terry was the first person she reached out to. "I GET IT, the soul of Africa!" she exclaimed. From the start of HHJ, leading a Kenya trip together has been in their hearts. What a joy it is to have Terry share insights on traditions of womanhood, family, and community as only she can!

Terry Ambugo

Terry Jill Asande Ambugo (Teresa) was born in Nairobi, Kenya and has lived in both Nairobi and her village in Migori County. She is of the Luo tribe and embraces most traditions and customs of her community. Terry speaks Luo, Swahili and English.

Terry and her husband Tom live in the US, where they are raising two beautiful daughters, giving them the greatest opportunities life has to offer. A part of Terry's heart will always be in Kenya, especially at her village in Ngochoni and the Petals of Africa School that she helped start 26 years ago.

Recently, Terry helped plan and host a US teen servant leadership abroad program to support the Petals of Africa School; this opportunity with HHJ to nurture cultural understanding further feeds her soul!

All who know her describe Terry as a woman of incredible grace and wisdom. There's a soulful presence to her that you feel instantly; a regal quality that accompanies her warm smile and keen insight.

For 22 years she has worked as a Christian Science Nurse, offering expectant healing care to all ages.

Terry loves good food, music and dancing, the ocean and nature. She can hardly wait to share her magical home country with us!

Jennifer Dale

HHJ Founder Jen Dale loves celebrating and uplifting others. A natural gatherer and builder, she nurtures community and creates safe spaces for deep connection. She believes in our inherent wholeness, the necessity of self-discovery, and the urgent call for healing sisterhood—both as a movement shaping a more intuitive, collaborative world and as the power of deep, trusted female friendships.

With backgrounds in dance and design, Jen found her true calling in nurturing people. She spent two decades developing and facilitating faith-based events and trips, including serving as director of a national teen servant leadership program during formative years and as dean of girls at an international boarding school in the US.

In 2022, during her own healing journey, she felt called to redefine womanhood beyond cultural expectations and build the strong sisterhood the world needs. She shares timeless women’s topics through HHJ blogs and intergenerational conversations on the Honest Heart Podcast.

Wherever Jen has gone, her ‘sisters’—women she’s built teams, programs, and friendships with—have been steady, supportive companions. This quality of sisterhood is woven into HHJ, encouraging women to nurture their personal and spiritual growth while holding each other gently accountable to their fullest potential.

A passionate traveler, Jen has witnessed the transformative power of intentional programming within inspiring environments. And there’s something in the soul of Africa that keeps calling her back!.

honestheartjourneys

FAQs

Trip Registration

Reserve your spot through our website. We require a 50% deposit with full payment due 180 days prior to the departure date. We welcome payments via credit card, check, or Zelle (jen@honestheartjourneys.com). We're happy to work with you to establish a payment plan as well.

If you have ANY questions, we'd love to talk with you! Reach out any time at info@honestheartjourneys.com.

Cancellation Policy

If a cancellation is made prior to 180 days before the trip date, the entire deposit will be refunded less a $500 per person service charge. Cancellations less than 179 days prior to the departure date will be charged in full.

Notification of cancellation must be received in writing via email to info@honestheartjourneys.com.

Itineraries are subject to change depending on weather, availability of activities, unforeseen circumstances, emergencies, etc. It is highly unlikely that we will cancel a trip, but we do reserve the right to cancel due to weather, natural disasters, emergencies or a lack of sufficient reservations. If we cancel a trip, a full refund of the trip deposit and any final payment will be given.

Trip Insurance

We require that you obtain travel insurance in case of unexpected medical circumstances, or the need for evacuation. We want you to make decisions that meet your needs. We highly recommend, but do not require, that you obtain cancellation insurance. Though we do not recommend specific companies, travel industry colleagues have recommended the following companies: AIG Travel, Alliance, Travelguard, and WorldNomads. You might also see what your credit card offers, and many airlines now offer travel insurance. If you are interested, we have referred many guests to a fellow HHJ sister who takes care of our own insurance needs.

Planning Guide

The planning guide that we provide all registered guests who are paid in full includes a full trip itinerary, packing list, supportive travel information, release forms for you to review/sign/return to us, an imporant guest survey, and other resources for learning more about Kenya.

Travel Information

This journey begins and ends in Nairobi, Kenya. Plan to arrive on Day 1, with many international flights landing late at night. We provide private transportation from the airport to our lodge in Karen, ensuring a smooth arrival. For departure, flights typically leave late in the evening, allowing time for a relaxed transition.

Passports

You will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Kenya.

Please check your passport well in advance of your departure date and make sure that is is valid. Your passport must be:

issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the 'date of issue')
valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the 'expiry date').

Tips

Honest Heart Journeys will distribute gratuities to guides and staff and collect one sum from guests at the end of the trip (in case you accumulate extras). No additional tipping is required, though guests are welcome to do so if they wish.

Reviews

HHJ's mission to bring women together to discover their own magnificence and personal power is what the world needs more of. To feel bonded and inspired by each other is an inspired objective! Thank you, Jen and all your team, for listening to the divine direction creating Honest Heart Journeys!

Gail, Colorado, USA

I’ve traveled with other groups before and never experienced anything like this. I noticed it didn’t matter who anyone was sitting next to; everyone immediately paired up and was having such a meaningful and animated conversation. It was like the perfect coming together of time and space and women. Normally it could take weeks or months or years to develop this level of conversations and trust, but this happened instantly, in a moment.

Jan, California, USA

I was blown away by the opportunity to connect with an amazing group of women in a way I did not know was possible and in a format which opened up a beautiful way to connect and talk.

LInda, Missouri, USA

The HHJ experience flew completely off the charts in all categories for me. It far exceeded my expectations with the added bonus of debunking the notion that I’m unlikely to be comfortable around a group of women who I don’t know and may come from a different lifestyle and set of interests from me. I think that was the biggest surprise for me – the amount of meaningful connections with others that I was finding and witnessing.

Anonymous

Kenya - Together We Are One

Overview

Highlights

Sisi Ni Moja – Together We Are One

The Majesty of the Mara: Sanctuary for Wildlife

Women’s Circles: The Heartbeat of Community

Itinerary

Pre-trip

Day 1 - Arrival in Nairobi

Day 2 - Tigoni

Day 3 - Nairobi

Day 4 - Masai Mara

Day 5 - Masai Mara

Day 6 - Saruni Eagle View

Day 7 - Saruni Eagle View

Day 8 - Saruni Eagle View

Day 9 - Saruni Eagle View

Day 10 - Transfer to Nairobi

Day 11 - Departure

Continued Community

The Experience

We Host Your Journey

Our Trip Book

Adventure & Connection

Luxurious Wilderness Accommodations

Fresh & Flavorful Cuisine

Warm & Vibrant February

Walk Gently, Connect Fully

Packing Tips

What's Included

What's Included

What's Not Included

Gallery

Hosts

Terry Ambugo

Jennifer Dale

Tickets

1 Adult - Double Occupancy

FAQs

Trip Registration

Cancellation Policy

Trip Insurance

Planning Guide

Travel Information

Passports

Tips

Reviews

Add Ons

Single Supplement

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Kenya - Together We Are One

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