Bena Roberts: Why I lead Ethical Women-Only Safaris in Kenya
After decades. Yes. Sadly. Decades... Decades of teaching, traveling, and working with many different cultures, I found something I love!
I now focus on creating solo-female safari experiences in Kenya that feel safe, thoughtful, and deeply human. These journeys are designed for females travelling alone in Kenya or with other women. They combine ethical safari practices, community partnerships, and carefully chosen camps that prioritise comfort and safety.
Short Video Why I love Kenya!
I am at a school in Kenya with the Community liaison officer from our partner charity Community Wildlife and Conservation Kenya.
From Out of Africa to the Savannah: My Kenyan Roots
Born in Kenya. Raised in the UK.
Without emulating Martin Luther, my dream is to incorporate social and community immersion into travel in Kenya. Sharing what I love and what makes us human
Healing Through Travel
I first saw Out of Africa in 1985 when I was thirteen. The warmth, the love, the endless golden light, it reached something deep inside me. I didn’t know then that a film could shape the way I see the world.
Years later, when I finally set foot in Kenya, I understood why. The air is thick, dusty, but real. The silence has sound. No photo or film can capture it, you have to be there to feel it.
Kenya gave me a sense of openness I had never known before. My love for Africa began on a cinema screen… and ended with me finding home in spirit.
My Journey After Cancer
Sixteen years ago, I was diagnosed with a rare illness. I thought my story was ending, but it was just beginning.
My hair never came back after treatment, and for a while, that crushed me. Then slowly, I stopped chasing the person I was and started building the person I wanted to be.
I left the corporate race behind.
I taught technology, Salesforce, and English. I studied Reiki and meditation, travelled often, and turned life into a series of small miracles. Travel became a way to heal, a chance to listen, breathe, and connect with others who had rebuilt their lives.
Meeting people is the best part of travel: strangers become family, and shared stories become treasures. Turning fifty felt like a new beginning. I realised I didn’t just want to visit Africa, I wanted to share it.
To plan journeys that mean something.
To create spaces where women can find peace, courage, and renewal.
Video of me talking about my women only Safaris
My Safari Wig - Kenya was on my bucket list after chemo!
Now, I am curating safaris! This is a video of my wigs on Safari!
This is my safari hair. As I mentioned above I lost my hair due to cancer. It never came back as I am one of those lucky one in a million ladies! But nothing stops me doing what I want and being true to myself.
I love this picture taken on a bushwalk in Samburu Kenya. I was nervous, but I loved every second. I am chewing on the toothbrush plant called Mswaki in Swahili.
Tree Planting in Kenya
Beyond the Safari
Not everything in my world revolves around travel. If you’d like to know a bit more about what I do outside the savannah, here are a few ways to explore:
Featured Publications
I regularly collaborate with different online platforms, sharing thoughts and stories about travel, resilience, and life.
Books
Writing has always been my passion. Here is my Goodreads profile.
Professional Journey
Before dedicating myself to travel and wellness, I spent years in the technology and education industries teaching Salesforce, English, and digital transformation.
Featured Publications
Here you’ll find a selection of articles and interviews where I’ve been featured or contributed my insights as a telecom analyst and writer. From global publications to personal stories, each one reflects a part of my professional and personal journey.
SPEND/THRIFT : Dialing for pennies
Soya milk, extra shot and a phone
Irish agenda: Ciaran Hancock: Is it OK Corral or High Noon for the gunslinger Casey?
Wal-Mart launching German MVNO service, mum on potential U.S. plans
Metaplastic BC – My Blog