That passion eventually led us to the next logical step – starting our own safari company. We named our company after Patterson’s mother, Nunu. Though she’s no longer with us, her spirit lives on in every aspect of our safari experiences. Karen, too, holds Nunu dear to her heart, cherishing the memories they shared during their brief time together.

In fact, during a special safari trip, Karen had the opportunity to introduce her mother to Nunu. Despite language barriers, they forged a deep connection as they sat quietly beneath the African sky together.

Now, as co-directors of Nunu’s Safaris, Karen and Patterson carry forward the legacies of their mothers with pride. With years of experience and a genuine love for adventure, they lead with a commitment to providing unforgettable safari experiences. They seamlessly blend their expertise to oversee operations from both in the heart of Kenya and the tranquil landscapes north of Seattle. Beyond the thrill of safari, they share a love for exploration and discovery, seeking out new horizons and experiences to enrich their lives and those of their guests.

At Nunu’s Safaris, we believe that every journey is an opportunity for connection – to the land, to the animals, to each other, and to the memories we hold dear. Whether you’re traversing the plains of the Maasai Mara or embarking on a new adventure closer to home, we invite you to join us on a voyage of discovery, guided by the spirit of Nunu and the warmth of family.

Nunu’s operates offices in both Bamburi-Mombasa, Kenya, and Seattle, Washington, ensuring that we are always accessible to our clients, no matter where they are or when questions arise.

Our Kenya office is home to our dedicated Reservations and Client Support team, led by Anne Brenda and Dominic Jillo. Dominic, who also runs a successful photography business, brings his expertise to our team both in the office and on select safaris—a true asset to our operations.

We pride ourselves on having the best driver guides in the region. Both Patterson,  and Komora Maneno from Tana Birding and Wildlife Safaris, are top guides who lead our safaris, ensuring an exceptional experience for our guests. Additionally, we collaborate with Stephen David, another highly skilled guide, to maintain the highest standards of service for our clients.

In Seattle, Karen manages the office full-time, supported by Kim Ducote, who excels in organizing our outreach events and keeping everything running smoothly.