Gayle Takashima

<p>In late 2019, I had the honor of being selected as a Cruise Specialists representative to travel to Kenya on a Micato Safari to further educate myself and our clients about safaris. Micato is one of the best in the business and has been operating safaris for 50 years. It was founded by Felix and Jane Pinto — second-generation Kenyans. The Pintos treat their guests as part of their extended family. In fact, all Micato guests who arrive in Nairobi are invited to the Pinto home as a part of their visit.  </p>
<p><strong>THE MANY MICATO DIFFERENCES</strong></p>
<p>Here are some of the ways Micato stands out:</p>
<p><strong>Luxurious Camps and Lodges</strong></p>
<p>The properties we stayed at were simply jaw-dropping. One example of this is when we stayed in the Laikipia Reserve at the Elewana Collection’s Loisaba Lodo Springs. It features eight individual spacious tented rooms with views that reach across the magical landscape of northern Kenya. Because this was a professional development trip for me, I also toured Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp. The Elewana Loisaba properties are within a 57,000-acre nature conservancy and are home to an abundance of animal species, including one of Kenya’s largest populations of lions, plus leopards, cheetahs and more. When we reached the Maasai Mara, we stayed at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club — our tents overlooked the river where hippos lounged and slept during the day.  </p>
<p><strong>Micato Safari Vehicles, Bush Planes, Guides & Drivers</strong></p>
<p>On this journey, I participated in more than a dozen game drives (about two each day I was in the bush). We were constantly on the lookout for, and seeing, wildlife as we drove across the plains or flew between camps and lodges. The Safari Directors are native to Africa, are certified and bring Africa’s story to life through a blend of guiding, lecturing and conversations over meals. The highly credentialed Driver Guides communicate with the other vehicles to ensure that if there is wildlife to see, everyone gets a chance. Because we were able to focus so much on our surroundings, we saw countless animals: lions, giraffes, hippos, rhinos, zebras, elephants, wildebeests, a variety of birds and more, all in their natural habitats. We were able to live in the moment, a luxury we don’t always have in our everyday lives. </p>
<p><strong>Dining</strong></p>
<p>Dining is another part of the experience where Micato raises the bar. Most dinners we savored in the comfort of our lodge or hotel’s gourmet restaurant. Breakfasts were almost more wonderful. Could you imagine my surprise, when, on our first morning game drive, we came to a stop at a peaceful vista and there were several tables set up with white tablecloths under the shade of trees? We were served mimosas and enjoyed an elegant buffet-style breakfast. It’s a special treat that in the middle of your game drive you get to do this, without needing to interrupt a day of sightseeing to go back to a hotel or restaurant to eat.  </p>
<p><strong>Unique Micato Moments</strong></p>
<p>Micato is famous for the delightful surprises they lavish upon their guests. Those are a fun part of the safari I don’t want to reveal. The staff also crafts unforgettable moments such as sundowner cocktails at twilight on the plains or heart-stirring encounters where we met with tribal villagers. Micato really aims to amaze. </p>
<p><strong>All-Inclusive</strong></p>
<p>Micato includes all gratuities, including to the Safari Directors and Driver Guides. At mealtimes, regional wines, beer and bottled water are included. Valet laundry service is included everywhere, every day. Most camps feature Wi-Fi, as do Micato’s safari vehicles, and that’s also free. They even have a Concierge Team available to obtain a forgotten prescription, find you an extra camera battery or pack the purchases you made on the trip and ship them home. </p>
<p><strong>THE WILDLIFE</strong></p>
<p>It’s because of these Micato distinctions, that for more than a week, I was able to focus with intent and without distraction on the magnificent wildlife we encountered. We had countless quiet moments of watching lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeests and rhinos. My first game drive turned out to be one of my most memorable events of the trip, because we saw so much in just a short time, and it was there that the circle of life we hear so much about became abundantly — and beautifully — clear. I’ll also never forget sitting on my balcony in the Maasai Mara watching the hippos so up close.  </p>
<p><strong>WHAT’S NEXT?</strong></p>
<p>I truly hope that you contact me, ask more about this trip and consider doing a Micato Safari. My consulting services are entirely complimentary. There is a lot to learn and I’ll take time to really listen to what you’d like to do. We will put together a safari that matches what you are looking for. With the stunning landscapes, lavish accommodations and the special people you meet, a Micato Safari feels luxurious and awe-inspiring at the same time.</p>
<p>It is important to note, I do not arrange only air, lodge stays or multi-day tours.  When you work with me, I only book luxury safaris.</p>
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