Women Only Safaris in Kenya: What Actually Makes Them Different?

By Bena Roberts | Ethical Safari Specialist for Women
Jan 9
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

What a women-only safari really means, and what it doesn't

A women-only safari is not about exclusion. It's about experience. A unique experience that is designed for comfort, safety, and shared values. I understand these values, as for the past 16 years, I have managed a women-only group of metaplastic breast cancer patients. This is a rare cancer, and through our group, we ladies have bonded and share a set of common experiences and values.

Masai Woman at the Mara Bush Camp — Local Maasai Woman at the Mara Bush Camp

Safety, Security, and Peace of Mind for Women-Only Safari and Travelling in Kenya

I am a bit of a worrier. I don't know why, but when I travel, I like to know about things. I like to be guided by local expertise. I don't want to run to the first Irish pub! On top of that, I need good accommodation. I laugh at some of my friends who say they can sleep anywhere. If it's too cheap, I wonder if it's clean. I wonder if it's sustainable. I wonder who is being paid what to look after the room. I worry about the toilet. I have standards at home, and I do not let them drop because I am travelling. That is why safety, security, and peace of mind are vital for women-only safaris or when in Kenya.

What is local expertise?

Local expertise is living like a local. For a few days, simply enjoy the culture and country that you are visiting. For example, I need to taste the local cuisine. It is number one on my list. But, I want the best local cuisine and only natives can tell me where it is or, better still take me and have a drink with me. Everyone has a story and I love to hear them.

Toilet in the Soroi Collection Camps — The loo on Safari is very important!

Accommodation Selection

I love a good night's sleep. It sets me up for the day. I try to live every day like it's my last. I have been in a position where it could have been my last day on earth... so I now do the best for me. But I am 52. I have learned from many experiences!

Cultural Context

Being respectful is so important to me. I am a woman. This women-only safari and journey ensures that we are respectful. I used to hate it in London when I saw non-natives don't something they shouldn't. I do not want to be THAT one. Travel should be respectful to all inhabitants.

Community initiatives with the CWC — Cultural Context

Small Group Dynamics: Why Group Size Matters for Women

Women want connection over crowds.

I do not feel good when I am fighting to see something. Or if a part of nature is being destroyed by mass tourism in peak season. I always travel in the low season to enjoy the trip without the crowds.

Flexibility without pressure

Let me see the best of the best with quality. I do not want to spend 15 mins looking at one thing, so I can fit in 300 more. I want to see quality sites, animals, and schools. This is flexibility without pressure. Setting a unique and quiet pace to the travel.

Intentional Travel

Travel with meaning and purpose. This is my goal!

Bena Roberts Female Lead - Safari Host — Me in the Mara, leading the tour

Women-Led Travel Host. Why Leadership Matters

I see things differently. My female perspective is caring and full of sympathy.

Empathy, Awareness, and Sensitivity

I cried so much on my last Safari. But out of love. Out of joy. It is a woman's joy that makes us natural. Women cry. Men cry, too. But I can cry at a LOT more! My memories and feelings are sensitive!

I have curated this experience and want to share it with you. I do not want to stuff it down your throat! I want to give you a unique and ethical experience that engages you.