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From: Jen
Date: 24 Apr 2001
Time: 09:49:46
Hello Ms. Willis - I found your website today when I went searching about safaris and trips to Kenya/Africa. I'm looking into going to Africa, especially Kenya, one of these years, and figured I'd start to research now about them. I don't make a ton of money, so I would have to save for a while to afford even the "cheapest" tour. I read some of your recommendations in your chat, I will look into the walking one - that sounds wonderful. Kuki Gallmann's Retreat is probably too expensive for me, but what I found interesting was that the movie was filmed here. If it was, how where they able to film if generators and a lot of vehicles aren't allowed on the land? Thank you for your web site. I found it very informative. It gives that "friend" appeal, as if I know you personally and you're giving me first hand (which you are) accounts about your experiences. Hopefully, I will be able to get to Kenya before too many years have passed. Jen
Dear Jen You'll be glad to learn that Kuki Gallmann is creating a very affordable camp at Laikipia. I saw the setting and it's fabulous, the former house of her ranch manager will serve as dining and meeting area, then there will be spacious tents out on the lawn under an ancient eucalyptus tree. It will involve travelers in an Earthwatch type experience, working on conservation projects in the reserve, such as identifying elephants. Regarding shooting I Dreamed of Africa, much of that film was shot in South Africa, only the last part, with the magnificent panorama of the landscape, and Kim Basinger driving up to the house, was shot at Laikipia. Kuki was actually ducked down in the back of the vehicle during that scene so that her dogs would follow. Generators on film sets are largely for lights; many cameras operate off batteries. My little Canon digital video can go all day on a battery belt. I don�t shoot at night or use a flash with animals or birds. So the peace and tranquility of Laikipia remain, although 4WD vehicles are now used for getting around to the various points. However, we didn't encounter another vehicle on my drives. Thank you for liking the tone of the site. Remember traveling is always cheaper if you get a group together, and you can inspire each other to save for a safari. Delta