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Why Complete Safaris Chose Kenya

  • Writer: Complete Safaris
    Complete Safaris
  • Jul 2, 2024
  • 2 min read

Our Home for Unparalleled Safari Experiences 

Safari in swahili means 'journey' or 'expedition.'

The answer isn’t that complicated. Anthony has 30+ years of private safari guide experience in Kenya and Lutricia fell in love with the country on her magical Kenya safari. So why not?


However, there’s a reason all of these synergies came to be. After all, Kenya is the birthplace of safaris and has significant historical importance in safari tourism. 


To begin with, the origin of the term "safari": The word "safari" comes from the Swahili language, spoken widely in Kenya. It means "journey" or "expedition."

Early expeditions In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kenya became a popular destination for European and American adventurers and hunters. These early expeditions laid the groundwork for modern safari tourism.

Royal connections Kenya gained international attention when Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) visited in 1952. She was at the Treetops Hotel in Aberdare National Park when she learned of her father's death and her accession to the throne.

Conservation pioneers Kenya is home to some of the earliest and most influential conservationists, including George Adamson and Joy Adamson (of "Born Free" fame), and paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey.

First national parkNairobi National Park, established in 1946, was one of Africa's first national parks, setting a precedent for wildlife conservation through tourism.

Shift from hunting to photographyKenya led the transition from hunting safaris to photographic safaris, banning hunting in 1977 and focusing on wildlife viewing and conservation.


Cultural tourismKenya pioneered the integration of cultural experiences, particularly with Maasai communities, into safari tourism.

Inspiration for literature and film Kenya has been the setting for numerous books and films about safaris, including "Out of Africa" and "The Constant Gardener," further popularizing the concept globally.

Quote from Wangari Maathai - You cannot protect the environment unless you empower people, you inform them, and you help them understand that these resources are their own, that they must protect them.

Development of eco-tourism Kenya has been at the forefront of developing eco-friendly and sustainable safari practices, influencing the industry worldwide. Wangari Maathai was a Kenyan environmentalist, political activist, and women's rights advocate.


This robust history has cemented Kenya's place as a premier safari destination and a leader in wildlife tourism, conservation, and sustainable travel practices, and why we’re excited every day to share the magic of Kenya safaris with others!

Ready to make a Kenya safari part of your story?

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