Celebrating a 70th Milestone with the Maasai at Angama Mara

Returning to Angama Mara in Kenya’s Mara Triangle is always a thrill. This place feels like stepping into a living dream: vast skies, jaw-dropping landscapes, and wildlife that knows how to strike a pose. But this time, the journey wasn’t just special—it was  epic. Why? Because yours truly, Marco van Embden, CEO of Timeless Africa Safaris, turned the big 7-0. Yep, 70. I know, I know: not a day over 50, right?

Now, birthdays usually mean cake, candles, and maybe a singalong. But when you’re celebrating in one of the most stunning places on earth, cake simply won’t cut it. So, my wonderful family and the team at Angama Mara planned a surprise that blew my socks off. Picture this: arriving at the Out of Africa saddle spot, dressed to the safari nines, only to be greeted by a full Maasai ceremony.

One of the most cherished moments from this celebration was capturing our family in action—together in the Mara, surrounded by nature and timeless traditions. We created a beautiful memory video, featuring moments with my wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family, as we embraced each other and the magic of this place. This video is more than a record of the day; it’s a window into the love, joy, and sense of belonging we shared.

Watching it, I’m reminded of how deeply experiences like these bond us and how grateful I am for this family journey in the heart of Africa.

The ceremony was magnificent, the kind of moment that makes you pause and think, This is the stuff stories are made of. And while we love a good lion sighting or two (don’t worry, the wildlife didn’t disappoint), this time the animals graciously let our family celebration steal the show. The ceremony was a reminder of life’s connections: to the land, to tradition, to African culture and most importantly, to each other.

As we finally left the Mara—reluctantly, of course—I was struck by the magic of celebrating milestones in Africa. These aren’t just holidays; they’re soulful experiences that bond us, inspire us, and live on in our hearts. As CEO of Timeless Africa Safaris, it’s my mission to share these unforgettable journeys. Because let’s face it, everyone deserves a moment in the Mara where you’re honoured, uplifted, and called something as majestic as “Father of Nations.”