Cultural Expeditions: Travel with a purpose, understand other cultures, experience the world's natural beauty and support local communities.
Susan Deslaurier Olofson has traveled to many countries across Central and South America, North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and East Africa. Although she loved each of the cultures and groups of people she met along the way, her heart was truly captured by Kenya and Tanzania during her first visit in January, 2007. This first trip was with Asante Africa Foundation, for which she subsequently served as vice president of the Board of Directors for three years. Her experiences with Asante Africa provided an opportunity to live and work alongside the people of Kenya and Tanzania during yearly visits, learning about the local culture, challenges and the vision of the future held by local leaders. She developed a special relationship with friends in the Maasai community of Maji Moto, returning frequently for personal retreat and enjoyment of the culture and natural surroundings.
In 2008, Susan and Maasai Chief Salaton Ole Ntutu came up with a plan to bridge cultural divides, sharing the spirit and nature of Kenya and Maasai culture to reignite the connection all people have to their ancestors and the earth. Salaton had already established a local tour business, providing camping and safari experiences for visitors. Together they pursued a vision to lead tours to the area that include staying in the authentic Maasai village where Salaton lives, experiencing the ceremonies, daily life and stories of the Maasai people, and also exploring the amazing game reserves while staying in luxury tented camps that are known to make a positive contribution to the environment and community programs, as well as providing respectful employment of local people.
Susan left her corporate job as a consultant and coach to executives in a major US health care company to pursue this dream of contributing to the peace and health of the world through cultural exchanges among people of the world.
