The Virgin Group founder who is one of the most influential public figures in the world was recently in Kenya for a casual visit. Even though he has been here many times before, he says that "there’s something about Kenya that makes you feel there’s magic in the air, wonder at every turn, and an ever-present sensation of oneness with nature."

On his agenda was to visit game reserves and unwind from his usual busy life. His venture for launching his airline Virgin Atlantic in Kenya may have failed in Kenya, but his heart is still in Kenya.

Richard Branson is an honorary Maasai elder and when he's around, he loves taking the local children on a trip. He teaches them about conservation and appreciating nature while young.

"A trip to Kenya can be an incredibly cleansing experience. Open spaces, so vast and untouched, lend perspective and instill a sense of peace," he fondly says.

The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics indicates that tourism arrival in Kenya has increased from 764,058 in 2004 to 1,291,842 in 2012.

Check out some of the photos below, courtesy of virgin.com