Travel Like Jenny

When you think of an authentic, life-changing safari experience, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a stunning African savannah with a wide variety of wildlife viewing experiences each day.  This is very typical of a safari, but if you want something even more transformative, a curated safari with Boutique Safaris and Abby Olemisko—a Maasai leader, safari guide and visionary—could be the best alternative.

The Maasai Legacy: Abby Olemisko’s Story

Abby Olemisko is not just a guide; he’s a Maasai leader with a mission. Born and raised in Engaruka, a remote village in the heart of Tanzania at the foot of the famous Ngorongoro crater, Abby carries the traditions, wisdom, and hospitality of the Maasai people in everything he does. Within this small village, Abby and his wife, Martha, founded, financed and built Engaruka English Medium Primary School (“EEMPS” for short) to provide much-needed educational support for girls from the surrounding rural communities.

EEMPS isn’t just about providing education; it’s also a lifeline for vulnerable girls in the region. Many young Maasai girls face the heartbreaking reality of arranged marriages at an early age, often with little regard for their education or future aspirations. Abby and Martha saw the importance of helping these girls see beyond the traditional limitations imposed on them. Through their school, they’ve created an environment where young girls gain an education that empowers them to build a brighter future for themselves.

A Safari Experience Like No Other

Having had the privilege of escorting four Tanzanian safaris with Abby – including the one in this picture, I can personally attest to the exceptional experiences his safaris offer. These are not your run-of-the-mill tours; they are curated journeys that connect with Tanzania on an almost spiritual level.

What sets Abby’s safaris apart from others is the intimate, family-like atmosphere he fosters. When you embark on a safari with Abby, you are not just a tourist—you’re treated as a valued guest in the Maasai community. As you travel through national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, Abby tells stories that bring the whole experience to life. His knowledge of both the wildlife and Maasai traditions allows you to experience Tanzania through a truly authentic lens.

One of the most memorable aspects of Abby’s Boutique Safaris is the chance to engage with the Maasai culture on a personal level. While many safaris offer glimpses of traditional life from a distance, Abby invites you to step into his world. Whether it's spending time with Maasai elders, visiting a local village, or learning about the intricacies of traditional Maasai crafts, Abby ensures that each guest leaves with a deeper understanding of the Maasai way of life.

A Grassroots Approach to Sustainable Tourism

Abby’s Boutique Safaris are a perfect example of how tourism can be both enriching and sustainable. Unlike mass tourism, which often leaves a heavy environmental and social footprint, Abby’s safaris are designed to minimize impact while maximizing the benefits for local communities. By focusing on smaller groups and personalized service, Abby ensures that guests receive a more intimate experience, while also contributing to the local economy in a meaningful way.

Through his work, Abby supports local Maasai guides, cooks, and drivers, providing employment and helping to ensure that the benefits of tourism stay within the community. His emphasis on sustainability extends beyond just environmental practices; it’s about creating a tourism model that benefits both visitors and locals alike. Equally importantly, from a local impact perspective, the focus on sustainability and community means that your safari dollars go directly toward supporting local projects, including the school in Engaruka. This commitment to social impact ensures that your trip has a lasting, positive effect on the communities you visit. 

Why Choose Abby Olemisko’s Boutique Safaris?

If you’re looking for a safari experience that’s rich in culture, wildlife, and community impact, then Abby Olemisko’s Boutique Safaris are the perfect choice. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with warmth and hospitality, and throughout your journey, you’ll feel like part of Abby’s extended family. His commitment to his Maasai roots makes each safari feel deeply personal and uniquely special. But the most rewarding part of Abby’s safaris is knowing that you’re contributing to something much bigger than just your travel experience. By supporting his grassroots initiatives, including the school in Engaruka that is changing lives—particularly for young girls who have been overlooked or subjected to early marriage—you’re helping to build a brighter future for the Maasai people and the next generation of Tanzanians.



So, if you want a safari experience that goes beyond sightseeing and touches on meaningful cultural exchange, conservation, and community empowerment, Abby Olemisko’s - Boutique Safaris should be at the top of your list. I’ve had the honor of joining him on multiple tours, and each time has been a life-changing experience I’ll treasure forever. The magic of Tanzania is in the land, the people, and the stories they have to share—and with Abby, you’ll discover it all in the most authentic and heartwarming way possible.