Adventure Travel with Phoebe Maina – Steri Tours and Travel | Kenya
Published by the Adventure Travel Podcast | Big World Made Small Youtube Channel
Kenya Deep Travel Tours – Going Beyond Safaris
Dreaming about an adventure in Kenya that goes beyond the standard packages and tourist routes? Combine breathtaking wildlife safaris with unique cultural experiences where you get to experience Kenya in a more authentic and community-empowered style. In this collaboration, One Planet Journey introduces Steri Tours – a company redefining travel in Kenya. Through a focus on culturally immersive activities where travellers interact with locals in a respectful way, Steri offers clients more than safaris and wildlife. Founder Phoebe Maina explains how their tours provide travellers with deeper connections, lasting memories, and purpose.
Magical Kenya
As a destination, Kenya has an allure that few can beat. Here, in the warm and sunny climate, it all began for humankind. And we’re coming back in droves to experience its wonders and uniqueness. For example, Nairobi is the only capital in the world to have a national park within its borders. Imagine that. Lions, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes and leopards so close to a major urban centre. But, as with many popular destinations, the service offerings have become quite standardised, everyone flocking to the same places, with almost no variation.
Bucket list tourism does little in the way of creating lasting connections between travellers and resident communities. With the rise of deep travel, there is a desire for more meaningful pursuits. A new crop of tour operators with responsible and immersive practices in place provide experiences like no other. Perfectly matched with travellers who know more.
What’s great in Kenya is the palette of activities on offer. You can easily combine exclusive wildlife safaris with a deep dive into the diverse culture. But what should you see and do? Let’s get specific and showcase some absolute highlights, making it easier to mix and match your perfect Kenya tour…
Read the full feature –Kenya Deep Travel Tours – Going Beyond Safaris by Richard Lindberg, published on the One Planet Journey website.
Celebrate Black History Month with WIT – Phoebe Maina
At Women in Travel CIC, our dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are the key pillars of our work which extends beyond Black History Month. To specifically honour Black History Month in October and celebrate talented, bright and forward-looking women and non-binary individuals, we highlight the achievements of black women and promote racial equality.
Phoebe (Muthoni) Maina is our community member who took part in the Male Allyship Network Programme in Cohort 2 of 2022/23. In the Blog below she shares her personal journey, commitment to the Travel industry, inspiring other Black women in her community and overcoming challenges that led her to thrive and aspire to open doors for others.
Can you share a bit about your personal journey and what inspired you as a leader in your industry?
My journey into tourism weaves a tapestry of passion, purpose, and a profound yearning for change. A decade of navigating the development sector unveiled the potential for positive impact. But it was a vision of vibrant, empowered communities through tourism that kindled my fervour. I aimed not only to create income but also jobs for youth—envisioning places where dignity, culture, and the environment harmoniously coexist. This vision guided me to create Steri Tours and Travel.
My leadership inspiration stems from the belief in transformative travel experiences. We showcase local culture, and heritage, and promote responsible tourism, offering unforgettable memories while uplifting livelihoods. My journey is a blend of ambition, compassion, and heritage preservation—a promise to create a better world through tourism. What inspires me is the belief in travel’s transformative power, community resilience, and the beauty of preserving culture and the environment—one Steri tour at a time.
What do you consider to be your most significant achievement, and how do you feel this achievement has impacted or influenced the broader black community?
My most remarkable achievement is the inception of my travel business during the tumultuous height of the COVID-19 pandemic—an endeavour that demanded an unwavering leap of faith. While the world grappled with uncertainty, I saw an opportunity to not only survive but thrive by inviting international travellers to explore the beauty of my homeland.
But the impact of this achievement extends far beyond my own entrepreneurial journey. It has become a beacon of hope and inspiration within the broader black community. My decision to forgo seeking traditional employment in favour of pursuing my travel business was a testament to the power of self-belief and the courage to manifest one’s vision and a reminder that our visions have the power to shape a brighter future.
Moreover, as my travel business flourished, I made it a point to extend my success to other young women from similar backgrounds. By creating job opportunities for them, I’ve shown that with determination and a belief in their own visions, they too can break through barriers and contribute to the broader black community’s prosperity.
What advice do you have for black individuals aspiring to become leaders, especially in the face of adversity?
Rise up, show up and make it count. This is the mantra that keeps me going in the face of adversity.
Can you talk about some of the challenges you faced on your path to leadership, and how you overcame them?
My journey to leadership was not without its fair share of challenges, but I firmly believe that challenges are simply stepping stones to success. One of the most pressing hurdles I encountered was the struggle to secure capital to sustain my business during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, amidst this adversity, I identified a glimmer of opportunity in the form of a tourism recovery fund. I decided to take a chance and apply for the grant, and I’m delighted to say that my determination paid off as I emerged as a grant recipient. This crucial injection of funds not only kept my business afloat but also propelled it forward.
Another significant challenge was marketing my business effectively. In response, I embarked on a creative journey to entice people out of the city. I conceptualized and introduced a novel offering called ‘Entrepreneur Workcation’ trips. These specialized trips not only provided a break from the urban hustle but also brought together like-minded entrepreneurs in our beautiful country’s scenic destinations. It allowed them to bond and share their challenges, creating a unique and valuable experience.
I also organized ‘Mumcations’ and ‘Girls Picnics,’ events designed to unite women, foster connections, and build a sense of community. These initiatives not only increased the visibility of my business but also championed the empowerment and enrichment of the women who participated.
In summary, my journey to leadership was marked by challenges, but I saw them as opportunities in disguise. I leveraged my resourcefulness and determination to secure funding through a tourism recovery grant, and I creatively redefined my marketing strategy through unique travel experiences, ultimately contributing to the success and visibility of my business.
How do you think the conversation around diversity and inclusion has evolved during your time as a leader?
Over my tenure as a leader, I’ve witnessed significant progress in the dialogue surrounding diversity and inclusion, though there’s still much ground to cover. We’ve transitioned from surface-level discussions to more candid conversations on these vital topics. Importantly, we’re now actively taking intentional steps to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to take leadership roles within the industry.
What steps do you believe are crucial in promoting diversity and inclusion in your industry?
To foster diversity and inclusion in my industry, we must expand the canvas for discussions, amplifying the voices of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Crucially, we should provide them with opportunities to take the lead in these conversations and spaces.
Published on the : Women in Travel CIC > Inspirational Women >
Soul of Travel: Women’s Wisdom + Mindful Travel
A seasoned social impact expert with over 15 years of diverse experience, Phoebe Maina, Founder and CEO of Steri Tours and Travel, excels in managing turnaround projects with a high success rate. Her expertise spans the design and management of local and global initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, child protection, travel, and community and business development. Having worked extensively with diverse communities across Africa, Phoebe possesses a deep understanding of multicultural and development dynamics, coupled with a passion for driving positive change at grassroots levels. Her vision extends beyond individual accolades—she is dedicated to driving economic growth in Africa through sustainable tourism practices.
Phoebe actively participated in coordinating Communication Working Groups to gather recommendations for the World Humanitarian Summit, fostering dialogue and cooperation within the humanitarian sector and earned the Africa Role Model award during the UN 63rd Commission on the Status of Women (NewYork) for exemplary contributions to girls’ empowerment in rural Kenya.
The Opportunity for Community Growth through Tourism
Phoebe was inspired to start Steri Tours after traveling extensively. “ I desired to see empowered communities and there is no better way to empower communities economically than through tourism,” she states. Working for over fifteen years in the development sector, Phoebe worked throughout Kenya to connect donors and sponsors, always traveling to the National Parks and local communities. “I could see such a big gap between the destination and the host communities. And every time I visited that area, I wished the communities thrived…rather than the hotels.”
She encourages travelers to go beyond the traditional safari: “We are big on that as a country, but I have encountered a couple of travelers who want more than that. And that is why I established Steri Tours and Travel to showcase Kenya beyond the safaris and ensure that the communities thrive as tourism thrives.
Economic stability and sustainability in community-partner tourism
Phoebe describes one trip that incorporated cultural immersion with an existing safari experience itinerary. The group changed into traditional wear, danced with the men and women with their drums, and celebrated with the community. “To see the community earn from that, and to earn something decent, a good amount that helps them plan, whenever they know I have a team there,” Phoebe and her team can come to an agreement that is fair and reliable income for the host community and provides a better, more memorable experience for her guests. Planning in advance is such an important part of being more economically secure and sustainable. “It also gives them an opportunity to influence other community members to be part of that as they showcase their traditions, their culture, their food, and at the same time, they preserve their culture.”
Steri Tours and Travel: Fair Economic Partnership
Steri Tours designs immersive cultural experiences where travelers become part of the daily fabric of Kenyan life. Visitors shop at local markets alongside community members, learning about local produce and engaging with vendors. In village homes, travelers participate in traditional meal preparation, fostering intimate connections with their hosts while learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques. The company arranges participation in authentic cultural ceremonies and celebrations, from traditional weddings to seasonal festivals, allowing travelers to witness and engage in significant community moments. Most importantly, communities receive direct compensation for cultural experiences they provide, creating clear incentives for maintaining and sharing them.
Creating Spaces for Women to Excel in Tourism
Phoebe prioritizes hiring girls and women as interns and in paid positions, knowing that many of the hospitality jobs available are in the wilderness or National Parks rather than tour operators or providers. “ We have a mentorship program where we mentor the students in the hospitality industry and also in the tourism industry in a couple of colleges and universities here in Kenya.” This puts Phoebe and her work at the forefront of the agenda of women in tourism as well as working with minority groups, arranging cultural exchange experiences and cultural preservation programming, creating “that opportunity to stand out in their community where women are not heard, not listened to, and they’re not giving an opportunity to speak up.”
“That is what really inspired my desire to start a travel company and work with the host communities. So that, as tourism thrives, they also thrive. I saw they also had an opportunity: leverage tourism such that it would give something unique to the travelers who are looking for something more than the safaris. ”
— Phoebe Maina
Published on the Soul of Travel, Season 6: Women’s Wisdom + Mindful Travel, presented by @journeywoman_original, Christine.
A Journey Through Tea and Tradition
Introducing the Agikuyu Cultural Experience by Steri Tours
Steri Tours is proud to launch a new, intimate travel experience that brings together two of Kenya’s most delightful influences: its world-renowned tea and the living heritage of the Agikuyu people.
This unique, four-hour cultural immersion rooted in land, tradition, and shared connection will walk visitors through the same green fields where tea has grown for generations, guided by local farmers.
You get to pick the tea with the farmers as you learn about the different types of tea ranging from low quality to high quality and this is followed by tea tasting.
The idea was born on a family picnic.
Phoebe, the founder of Steri Tours, had brought her children to the tea farm for a weekend outing. Something about that day stuck with her: the beauty of the tea plantation, the waterfalls, the warmth of the farmers, and the clear sense that this land held a story worth telling. Conversations turned into collaborations. And now, that same farm opens its gates to small groups of visitors who want to experience something honest, grounded, and personal.
After the tea tasting, the experience deepens.
You’ll be welcomed into the Agikuyu cultural circle for a moment of shared humanity. Elders and youth come together to explain traditional food, dress, dance, and history. You’ll hear the meaning behind the movements. You’ll learn the significance of the songs. And then, you’ll be invited to participate.
You’ll also get to enjoy a traditional feast with Mukimo, a staple dish at many Kikuyu ceremonies — from weddings to funerals — and is often served alongside njahi, a locally grown variety of bean, roasted roots, and kienyeji chicken. You’ll learn about marriage rites, food symbolism, and sacred customs.
This is the kind of travel experience Steri Tours is committed to building — where tourism uplifts local communities, honors tradition, and gives space for the next generation to shine.
The Agikuyu Tea and Cultural Experience is available by pre-booking only and is intentionally limited to small groups.
Reserve with us now!
Trading ordinary for extraordinary
At Steri Tours & Travel, we curate experiences that blend adventure with cultural richness, creating journeys that leave lasting impressions. After the exhilarating thrill of a Maasai Mara safari, there’s no better way to unwind than immersing yourself in the serene authenticity of Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history, tradition and tranquility converge.
Why Travelers Are Falling for Lamu
Seamless Arrival, Unconventional Style
Unlike most destinations where arrival is marked by traffic jams and bustling terminals, Lamu welcomes you with an experience that begins on the water. Travelers are greeted at Manda Airport and instead of taxis, speedboats are the primary mode of transport. As you glide across the azure waters, the salty breeze and rhythmic waves set the tone for the island’s peaceful charm.
Timeless Logistics
One of Lamu’s most fascinating aspects is its car-free streets. Here, time slows down and movement takes on a traditional rhythm. Instead of taxis, donkeys and handcarts transport luggage, a nod to the island’s sustainable ethos and commitment to preserving centuries-old practices. Walking through narrow coral-stone alleys lined with intricately carved wooden doors and Swahili-style architecture feels like stepping back in time.
Safety in Simplicity
Lamu is often praised for its low crime rate, making it one of Africa’s safest destinations for relaxed exploration. Whether you’re wandering through bustling marketplaces, strolling along pristine beaches, or admiring the craftsmanship of local artisans, the island’s warm hospitality and close-knit community create an atmosphere of peace and security.
Sailing Through History
A visit to Lamu wouldn’t be complete without a sunset dhow cruise, a timeless journey through the waters surrounding the island. These traditional wooden sailing vessels, once central to trade along the Swahili coast, now offer a tranquil way to experience the beauty of the setting sun over the Indian Ocean. As you glide past mangrove forests, listen to the waves and embrace the rich maritime heritage that has shaped Lamu’s identity.
Cultural Depth Beyond the Brochure
Lamu’s magic isn’t just found in its landscapes, it’s woven into its living heritage.
- Savor spice-infused Swahili cuisine, where fragrant coconut rice, freshly caught seafood, and cardamom-spiced stews awaken the senses.
- Marvel at centuries-old architecture, from coral-stone houses to intricately designed wooden doors that tell stories of trade, craftsmanship, and cultural fusion.
- Connect with a community deeply rooted in tradition, where age-old customs blend seamlessly with contemporary island life.
Why Pair the Mara with Lamu?
Kenya’s duality shines in this contrast. The wild adrenaline of the Maasai Mara is complemented perfectly by Lamu’s reflective calm, a space to unwind, soak in the rhythm of coastal life and immerse yourself in an entirely different cultural experience.
If you’re seeking a journey that balances thrill and tranquility, heritage and modern exploration, then Lamu is the destination for you.
Let Steri Tours & Travel craft an unforgettable experience that blends adventure, authenticity, and the essence of coastal Kenya. Your next adventure begins here.
Celebrate Black History Month with WIT – Phoebe Maina
At Women in Travel CIC, our dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are the key pillars of our work which extends beyond Black History Month. To specifically honour Black History Month in October and celebrate talented, bright and forward-looking women and non-binary individuals, we highlight the achievements of black women and promote racial equality.
Phoebe (Muthoni) Maina is our community member who took part in the Male Allyship Network Programme in Cohort 2 of 2022/23. In the Blog below she shares her personal journey, commitment to the Travel industry, inspiring other Black women in her community and overcoming challenges that led her to thrive and aspire to open doors for others.
Can you share a bit about your personal journey and what inspired you as a leader in your industry?
My journey into tourism weaves a tapestry of passion, purpose, and a profound yearning for change. A decade of navigating the development sector unveiled the potential for positive impact. But it was a vision of vibrant, empowered communities through tourism that kindled my fervour. I aimed not only to create income but also jobs for youth—envisioning places where dignity, culture, and the environment harmoniously coexist. This vision guided me to create Steri Tours and Travel.
My leadership inspiration stems from the belief in transformative travel experiences. We showcase local culture, and heritage, and promote responsible tourism, offering unforgettable memories while uplifting livelihoods. My journey is a blend of ambition, compassion, and heritage preservation—a promise to create a better world through tourism. What inspires me is the belief in travel’s transformative power, community resilience, and the beauty of preserving culture and the environment—one Steri tour at a time.
What do you consider to be your most significant achievement, and how do you feel this achievement has impacted or influenced the broader black community?
My most remarkable achievement is the inception of my travel business during the tumultuous height of the COVID-19 pandemic—an endeavour that demanded an unwavering leap of faith. While the world grappled with uncertainty, I saw an opportunity to not only survive but thrive by inviting international travellers to explore the beauty of my homeland.
But the impact of this achievement extends far beyond my own entrepreneurial journey. It has become a beacon of hope and inspiration within the broader black community. My decision to forgo seeking traditional employment in favour of pursuing my travel business was a testament to the power of self-belief and the courage to manifest one’s vision and a reminder that our visions have the power to shape a brighter future.
Moreover, as my travel business flourished, I made it a point to extend my success to other young women from similar backgrounds. By creating job opportunities for them, I’ve shown that with determination and a belief in their own visions, they too can break through barriers and contribute to the broader black community’s prosperity.
What advice do you have for black individuals aspiring to become leaders, especially in the face of adversity?
Rise up, show up and make it count. This is the mantra that keeps me going in the face of adversity.
Can you talk about some of the challenges you faced on your path to leadership, and how you overcame them?
My journey to leadership was not without its fair share of challenges, but I firmly believe that challenges are simply stepping stones to success. One of the most pressing hurdles I encountered was the struggle to secure capital to sustain my business during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, amidst this adversity, I identified a glimmer of opportunity in the form of a tourism recovery fund. I decided to take a chance and apply for the grant, and I’m delighted to say that my determination paid off as I emerged as a grant recipient. This crucial injection of funds not only kept my business afloat but also propelled it forward.
Another significant challenge was marketing my business effectively. In response, I embarked on a creative journey to entice people out of the city. I conceptualized and introduced a novel offering called ‘Entrepreneur Workcation’ trips. These specialized trips not only provided a break from the urban hustle but also brought together like-minded entrepreneurs in our beautiful country’s scenic destinations. It allowed them to bond and share their challenges, creating a unique and valuable experience.
I also organized ‘Mumcations’ and ‘Girls Picnics,’ events designed to unite women, foster connections, and build a sense of community. These initiatives not only increased the visibility of my business but also championed the empowerment and enrichment of the women who participated.
In summary, my journey to leadership was marked by challenges, but I saw them as opportunities in disguise. I leveraged my resourcefulness and determination to secure funding through a tourism recovery grant, and I creatively redefined my marketing strategy through unique travel experiences, ultimately contributing to the success and visibility of my business.
How do you think the conversation around diversity and inclusion has evolved during your time as a leader?
Over my tenure as a leader, I’ve witnessed significant progress in the dialogue surrounding diversity and inclusion, though there’s still much ground to cover. We’ve transitioned from surface-level discussions to more candid conversations on these vital topics. Importantly, we’re now actively taking intentional steps to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to take leadership roles within the industry.
What steps do you believe are crucial in promoting diversity and inclusion in your industry?
To foster diversity and inclusion in my industry, we must expand the canvas for discussions, amplifying the voices of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Crucially, we should provide them with opportunities to take the lead in these conversations and spaces.
A Hopeless Romantic at Heart
I am a hopeless romantic at heart, no, not the kind you read of in poems that stop to smell the roses and fall in love with the sunset, mine is more of road trips with a strong black king at the wheel, my legs on the dashboard without a care in the world if we have enough fuel, or if the tyres are at their optimal air pressure of 35. That’s my kind of romance, the kind of being taken care of. Because at the end of the day, even as I chase my professional dreams and rehearse my presentation for the next board meeting, I am still a little girl who craves protection, the strong, consistent, broad shouldered manly kind.
You see how some plants refuse to give up and actually grow through concrete pavements, that’s the same analogy I apply to my life these past few months. Through utterly heartbreaking and emotionally draining circumstances, I now find myself with more free weekends on my hands. I could have chosen to sit through these weekends adding another 10kgs over and above what Covid downtime already gifted me, but I choose to follow my heart and live life each day to the fullest, because we only live once but once is enough if you do it right. I am so lucky to do this with my soulmate, a gem of a man who makes all the love clichés come to life for me. But I digress, I would love to share a neat romantic spot I discovered on my journey to grow through the concrete;
Ol donyo Orok camp in Namanga is a hidden camping ground off the Namanga highway. It’s actually situated 23kms just before you get to Namanga. A secluded site that comes with tented accommodation, hot water and a pool that is open 24hours. The staff are few and very friendly, by the time we left, I knew all by name and actually looking forward to seeing them again. Everything about this place speaks of a personal touch. You can tell the owner has put his heart into this and he says so because he takes the time to catch up with each individual guest. He is also one of the chefs and will talk you into trying his amazing deserts each and every time. One of my favoutire features in our room, herein referred to as the love boat, was that our 4 poster bed had been fitted with fairy lights which I found exceptionally sweet. I have been to hotels with amazing lighting and deco, and these fairy lights remain my favorite. Not to downplay the charm in these rooms, with a bathroom that literally brings the outdoors in and makes taking a bath feel like an outdoor experience and floors that make you forget you are actually in a tent. The real show stopper is this old ‘combi’ van that the charming owner has converted into a fully functional bar by the poolside, very quaint and definitely unforgettable.
When we stayed there we were one of the 3 couples on the grounds and we had so much time to ourselves to walk through the camping site, even hire a bike and have the ever patient Mr. K teach clumsy me how to ride to the amusement of the little boys in the neighboring community. The area around the campsite is surrounded by winding roads that hiking and cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of and the camp also organizes for day trips to the mountain ‘ol donyo orok’ which if I remember correctly is loosely translated to mean ‘the black mountain’. If you want a place where you can be still, listen to your soul, get lost in the eyes of the one who makes your heart skip a beat, binge on each other until you can literally hear each other’s thoughts, then jump in the car, put your legs on the dashboard or drive if it’s your turn to do so, and head straight to Namanga. 23kms to the town, take a right turn and follow the rugged little dirt road and you will be well on your way to one of the most romantic escapades ever.
On the way back, I was calm, loved, hopeful, a little stronger and ready for another few months of pushing through the concrete. But don’t listen to me, I am just a hopeless romantic who has refused to give up on her daydreams, go see for yourself! Oh’ the places you will go.
“I will see you when the sky is a little bluer, the day a bit brighter and your soul a little lighter” – N.K.
