Meet a Maasai Guide Who Introduces You to Wild Animals by Name | Go Travel Daily

Meet a Maasai Guide Who Introduces You to Wild Animals by Name

Guide Steve Nkumum © Lola Mendez

An intimate knowledge of the land

As a resident of the Maasai Mara in Kenya, Steve Nkumum has witnessed firsthand the issue of non-Maasai tour guides sharing his culture. He realized that his future lay in becoming a proud Maasai ambassador, sharing the rich traditions and customs of his people.

Nkumum has an unparalleled understanding of the region, cultivated through years of lived experiences in the African bush. Each encounter with wildlife was an opportunity for educational growth, leading him to master the behaviors of various animals, knowledge he now applies as an expert guide.

After spending years working as a naturalist, he advanced to tour guiding, where he has had the privilege of sharing his extensive knowledge about the diverse ecosystems of the Maasai Mara with visitors. His insights enhance guest experiences, transforming each safari into a memorable journey through stunning natural landscapes.

Nkumum examines a shell © Lola Mendez

A sense of wonder

Nkumum’s enthusiasm for wildlife remains undiminished despite his extensive experience in the wilderness. Each animal sighting is met with childlike excitement, highlighting the continuous thrill of observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

With an innate ability to predict wildlife behavior, Nkumum makes every journey into the bush a unique experience. On night drives, his keen senses have led to extraordinary encounters with large predators like lions, showcasing the delicate balance between nature and tourism.

Leopard resting on a tree after a buffalo hunt in Masai Mara National Park © iStock

Leopards, which are notoriously elusive, captivate Nkumum most. Each sighting of these magnificent creatures invokes joy, allowing guided visitors an insight into their mysterious worlds.

A less-traveled reserve

While the Maasai Mara National Reserve is popular, Nkumum prefers guiding guests to the Naboisho Conservancy. Here, conservation efforts are prioritized, providing a more intimate and unspoiled experience.

Two lions in the bush © Marilar Irastorza/Stocksy

During visits to Naboisho, fewer tourists mean an enhanced safari experience, with reduced vehicle presence allowing for natural wildlife interactions. This respectful approach to conservation results in unforgettable moments, including witnessing wildlife births and unique predatory behaviors.

Experience Kenya more intimately © Stocksy

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