The Inception of Pick A Safari: Honoring a Dream and Sharing the Heart of Kenya

Hello, I’m Faith, founder of Pick A Safari. This is the story of Pick A Safari and what this journey has meant to me, from the heart.

Pick A Safari was born from the love and vision of my late wife, Jenny (pictured 4 from the left), who was the true spark behind this adventure. She wrote the very first business plan and even came up with the name, “Pick A Safari.” Six months later, however, she fell ill and eventually passed away, leaving us with a profound legacy and a promise to fulfill her dream.

Jenny’s love for connection and experience was deeply rooted in her life story. She grew up in Santa Fe, where her parents founded the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, a community treasure that brought people together through music and creativity. Just as music connected people in her hometown, Jenny saw Kenya and the African wilderness as a way to connect people across cultures and experiences. Her vision was for a safari experience that would not only showcase the beauty of Africa but would also bring people closer together, creating lasting memories and a profound appreciation for nature.

Pick A Safari embodies Jenny’s dream of an immersive safari experience that offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime connection to the African wilderness — filled with wonder, beauty, and a bit of magic. Through Pick A Safari, I am honored to share the Kenya I know and love. The place I grew up, where breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant Kenyan culture converge. Pick A Safari adventures are more than just a safari; they're a journey of the heart, designed for travelers seeking the real, unfiltered Africa with a family-like experience that leaves a lasting impact. Our mission is simple: to provide a family feel to our clients as they connect to the magnificence of the African wilderness and create memories that last a lifetime.

A Journey Rooted in Love and Connection

Jenny’s dream wasn’t just a passion — it was her legacy, her gift to the world, to me, and to our son, Hayden. She saw Kenya not only as a beautiful landscape but as a place that could heal, inspire, and bring people together. Her wish was to create an experience that would bridge worlds, allowing people from all walks of life to connect with the African wilderness in ways that are meaningful and profound. And so, it is with heart and purpose, drawing from my childhood experiences in Kenya, that Pick A Safari began to take shape.

Our Philosophy

At Pick A Safari, we are committed to offering an authentic, elevated safari experience that not only provides our guests with exceptional service but also celebrates the very essence of Kenya. Our philosophy is to treat each guest as family, welcoming them to experience the magic of the African bush, the beauty of the coast, and the warmth of Kenyan culture. We believe in creating moments that linger — a sunset over the savanna, the sounds of nature at dawn, and the smell of a bush campfire after a long game drive.

We welcome guests from around the world, each with unique interests and passions, and aim to deliver a journey that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s witnessing the raw power of a lion’s hunt, observing the grace of a giraffe in the wild, or spending time with the locals in Kenyan villages, each safari is crafted to be as unique as the traveler.

Who We Serve: From Families to Young Explorers

Kenya is a destination that offers something truly special for everyone, and at Pick A Safari, we pride ourselves on our ability to cater to each traveler’s needs. I have a background as a Montessori-certified educator, which gives me a unique perspective on providing safari experiences that are not only enriching but also engaging for young travelers. We want families to enjoy their time with us, but also to come away with a deeper appreciation for Africa’s wildlife, ecosystems, and cultural diversity.

Catering to young explorers is a special part of our philosophy, designed to give children an educational, enriching experience. They get to learn about wildlife, ecosystems, and culture, often by visiting local schools and interacting with Kenyan children, fostering cross-cultural friendships and opening doors to lifelong learning. This approach turns safaris into a family adventure that is not only enjoyable but also transformational for everyone involved.

Positively Impacting Communities and Supporting Sustainability

One of the greatest joys of operating Pick A Safari is the chance to give back to the Kenyan communities that make these experiences possible. We are committed to supporting local economies by partnering with local guides, artisans, and small businesses. Each trip we organize directly contributes to the socio-economic development of the areas we visit, ensuring that the benefits of tourism extend to those who call these regions home.

Moreover, sustainability is at the core of what we do. Our Kenya safari packages not only offer a glimpse into Africa’s awe-inspiring biodiversity but also promote the preservation of these natural habitats. By partnering with local conservation efforts such as David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center, we help protect endangered species and conserve the landscapes that have been a part of Kenya’s story for centuries. Our goal is to make sure that each journey through Pick A Safari leaves a positive impact on the environment and communities.

Showcasing Kenyan Culture

To truly experience Kenya, it’s essential to connect with its people. Our safaris offer guests the chance to explore beyond the animals and the landscapes, immersing themselves in the culture that makes Kenya so extraordinary. From the bustling energy of Nairobi’s business districts to the age-old traditions of the Maasai in the bush, Kenya’s cultural diversity is as vast and magnificent as its landscapes.

Guests are given the chance to meet local artisans, visit traditional Maasai villages, and learn about the customs that define life in Kenya. These interactions foster understanding and respect for the traditions that are so central to Kenyan life, offering our guests a chance to witness the resilience, joy, and harmony of the people of Kenya.

Offering Unique Kenya Safari Packages

In creating Pick A Safari, I wanted to share the essence of Kenya in all its beauty, and in a way that stays with people long after their safari has ended. Pick A Safari is not just taking you to a destination; we’re inviting you to be a part of Kenya’s heart, to feel its pulse, and to connect with its people, wildlife, and landscapes in the most meaningful way possible.

When you join us on safari, you’re not just a traveler, you’re part of the Pick A Safari family. And like family, we are here to make sure your experience is unforgettable. From stunning wildlife to the amazing and comfortable accommodations with partners such as The Safari Collection and Giraffe Manor, our goal is to create once-in-a-lifetime memories. We believe that a journey to Kenya is transformative, and it’s an honor for us to share that journey with each and every traveler.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your adventure.

Pick A Safari Today

Today Pick A Safari is much more than a safari company — it’s a living tribute to a dream, a passion for Kenya, and a commitment to sharing the beauty of this land with all who seek to experience it. Every safari, every interaction, and every breathtaking view is part of our legacy, one that we are proud to share with you.

Whether it’s the thrill of the safari, the beauty of the landscapes, or the warmth of Kenya’s people, Pick A Safari is here to provide an extraordinary journey that touches your heart. We look forward to welcoming you to Kenya, a place where magic, adventure, and a sense of belonging await.

So, if you’re ready to see Kenya through the eyes of those who call it home,

we invite you to join us on this journey.

Written by Libbie Krussow on Faith Bonareri-Rich’s behalf from interviews