Paul Karanja

Driver

Name: Paul Njoroge Karanja

Position: Driver

Where are you from: Proudly Kenyan!

How long have you been working for Acacia: I have been in overlanding since 2011 and with Acacia since 2006

What is your favorite Acacia tour, highlights and activities:
I love the UAAV39-Nairobi –Livingstone-you get to see gorilla’s, meet the local kids and visit their schools, see the handicrafts such as wood carving, jewelllery and paintings and plenty of great beaches along the way not to forget the wildlife!

What is your favorite country and your top highlight of this country:
East Africa-I am from there!! The game drives here are great for visitors as you see the animals so close to the vehicles and great experience. I also love Namibia for the floodlit watering hole at Etosha, everyone who goes there loves it

If you could choose a favorite activity and game park what would it be:
The Maasai walk in the Maasai Mara (being part Maasai myself!) The passengers get a great insight to this famous culture of East Africa. The village walk in Malawi also is a great experience and a nice chance to interact with the locals. The Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater also are top of my list-the wildlife is second to none-mother nature permitting of course!

What are some of the common misconceptions about Africa that passengers have:
Visitors to Africa should always remember that here things are a lot different from back home, not always does everything run smoothly-this is where the famous TIA (This Is Africa) saying comes from, so be patiently, relax and a smile gets you a long way in Africa.

What travel tip would you give to first time overlander’s:
Come with an open mind and be prepared to have the trip of your life with Acacia!

Where would you like to see Acacia travel to in the future and why:
Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Cairo