Posted on July 18, 2025

There are weekends you forget by Monday… and then there are those that stay with you forever. For Rina and her friends, their day trip to Serval Wildlife this July was one of the unforgettable ones—filled with laughter, adventure, and the kind of beauty that only nature can offer.

The Journey Begins
The group met early on a crisp July morning, still a bit groggy but buzzing with excitement. With snacks packed, cameras charged, and playlists ready, they hit the road just after sunrise. The drive to Serval Wildlife—nestled in the heart of West Kilimanjaro—was scenic, flanked by endless plains and the occasional zebra sighting along the way.

First Impressions
Upon arrival, the team at Serval Wildlife welcomed them with warm smiles and a short orientation. The sanctuary, known for its luxury conservation efforts and unique up-close encounters with wild animals, immediately impressed the group with its lush, landscaped grounds and tranquil, Eco-friendly vibe.

“Is this real?” Rina whispered, taking in the elegant walkways surrounded by acacia trees and the distant roar of a lion.

Up Close with the Animals
The highlight of the day, of course, was the guided tour. Serval Wildlife is home to several rescued and rehabilitated animals, including giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, elands, and—its namesake—the elusive Serval cats.

Rina and her friends were able to feed a towering giraffe by hand, its gentle eyes and long tongue making for a mix of awe and squeamish laughter. They also spent quiet moments watching the cheetahs sunbathe just meters away, learning about their stories of rescue and rehabilitation.

But what really touched their hearts was the care and respect with which the staff treated each animal. These weren’t just exhibits—they were individuals, each with a name, a background, and a future being safeguarded.

A Luxury Twist
Unlike most wildlife sanctuaries, Serval Wildlife offers a touch of luxury. After their walk, the group enjoyed a laid-back afternoon sipping fresh juice on a deck overlooking a watering hole, while zebras casually grazed nearby.

Capturing the Memories
Phones and cameras clicked away all day, but nothing quite captured the magic of just being there. As the sun dipped low, casting golden hues over the sanctuary, Rina took a quiet moment to reflect.

“There’s something grounding about spending time with animals,” she said. “It reminds you of how small and connected we all really are.”

The Ride Home
On the way back, the van was quieter. Not from fatigue, but from contentment. Each person stared out the window, replaying moments from the day—the soft nudge of a giraffe’s nose, the quiet dignity of a Serval pacing in the grass, and the joy of simply being together.