A LOOK AT KENYA THROUGH THE YEARS – PictureBlog 1914 – 1990s

Jomo Kenyatta in 1914, he was baptized a Christian and given the name John Peter which he changed to Johnstone. He later changed his name to Jomo

THE EAST AFRICAN STANDARD BUILDING IN THE 1920’s At the forefront of the early pioneers was A.M. Jeevanjee, who established Kenya’s first newspaper now known as the The Standard.

THE ORIGINAL STANLEY HOTEL – 1920

Kenya Breweries and British American Tobacco around 1920’s

The Nairobi railway station in its early days

Galton Fenzi & Captain Gethin made the first car journey from Nairobi to Mombasa in 1926

The Cathedral in Mombasa. My siblings and i were all baptized at this Catholic Church

Arthur Moen. Lion Shot Near Embu Mt Kenya 1930 Look at the size of our Lions in the colonial days though!

Tusks of elephants shot by Frederick Edward Guest, a cousin of Winston Churchill, and his daughter Diana – again look at the size!

RACING CARS ON BRACKENHURST HILL (NEAR LIMURU)

RACING CARS ON BRACKENHURST HILL (NEAR LIMURU)

Hardinge Street, 1950: taken on March 31, 1950, during a pageant to commemorate the birth of a city. The Duke of Gloucester proclaimed Nairobi a Charter City

The Kapenguria six – arrested in 1952

Florida Mombasa! Very popular swimming club back then. A lot of school children had their swimming classes here

Likoni ferry – 1953

MOBIL OIL STAND AT THE ROYAL SHOW (CHANGED TO THE AGRICULTURE SHOW AFTER INDEPENDENCE)

The Ford stand at the Royal show- A Ford Cortina in globe

Sportsman stand at the Royal show

Pepsi stand at the Royal show

The show arena – Kenya African Rifle band

A young couple in typical 50s style sit on a scooter in a vehicle parade at the Royal Show. Kenya, 25 September 1957

Queen mother visits Kenya 1959

Original Nyali bridge

Chemelil-station 1950s

Salisbury swimming pool in Westlands around the 1950’s. Now Shamura’s bar, Chiromo Road Westlands

NAKURU: Cars line up for race at Nakuru Race track (langa langa)

Nakuru Race Track. A motor racing track operated in the Lake View Estate area from 1956 until the mid 1980’s

Nakuru Race Track. A motor racing track operated in the Lake View Estate area from 1956 until the mid 1980’s

Go Karting at Nakuru Race track. A motor racing track operated in the Lake View Estate area from 1956 until the mid 1980’s

The Old Nyali Bridge

The old Nyali Bridge

City Park – a relaxation resort on Sundays & holidays. There used to be a band playing in the gazebo in the middle of the park every fortnightly 1955

An Askari directing traffic on corner of Government Road & Bazaar Street . Now Moi Avenue and Biashara street

Silversands at Malindi was used by the British Army for rest and recreation.

Famous Mombasa Tusks. The tusks were constructed in 1956 to commemorate a visit by Princess Margaret. The tusks represent the letter M

Mombasa tusks – 1956

Delamere-Ave-decorated for Princess Margaret visit 1956

Princess Margaret visited East Africa in 1956 and to Welcome her to Nairobi, the various Asian Communities built gates on Government Road

Odeon cinema on Latema road 1956

Policing the Kenya Northern Frontier – Camel Patrol (1957)

River-road in junction with latema road -1958

Salim road in Mombasa (1960) check out the main market on the left, thats still standing today

Oceanic hotel msa 1959

Silversands at Malindi was used by the British Army for rest and recreation.

Entrance to Nairobi National Park – Adults Kshs 3 Children Kshs 1

Police Head Quarters 1950/60’s

Mwai Kibaki weds Lucy – 1962

Jomo Kenyatta, Moi before independence

MAY 1963 – Kanu Sweeps To Power. Jumping for joy, Jomo Kenyatta, with Tom Mboya and Mwai Kibaki, celebrate KANU’s victory in the independence election.

Jomo Kenyatta, Kenyas first President – with Julius Nyerere of Tanzania and Milton Obote of Uganda

Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and his Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga

Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki, Daniel Arap Moi – 3 Kenyan Presidents in one room. The boy is Kenyattas son, Muhoho.

Jomo Kenyatta holding his son, Uhuru Kenyatta’s hand in November 15, 1965

Little Uhuru and his father Jomo Kenyatta

Kenyatta playing snooker

Nairobi dam was popular with sailors – 1960s

Beautiful shot of Nairobi-Mombasa road, newly laid tarmac

HARDINGE STREET 1960 (Kimathi Street)

Woolworths Delamere Avenue

KENYA CINEMA 1966

NAIROBI CBD – 1966

Valley road 1969

Nairobi City Centre

Waiting for Likoni ferry 1970

City house Mombasa completed in 1958 replacing old building occupied by Motor Mart & Exchange. It was the first building incorporating an arcade and a fountain in the central courtyard, hence the restaurant being named FONTANELLA ( Photo: Ameer Janmohamed)

Nyali beach, Mombasa Deserted, peaceful

Oceanic hotel Mombasa

Turtle Bay, Watamu 1970

Mombasa public beach!! Fond memories of the 80s!

A Minx on the original Nairobi-Mombasa murram road

Kilifi ferry 1970

President Kenyatta is pictured with his family on arrival at his Gatundu home from Mombasa where he had been on a two-week working holiday on September 7, 1973. His son Uhuru Kenyatta stands next to him

Mtwapa Ferry

GOVERNMENT ROAD – NOW MOI AVENUE

Parliament house 1970s

River road Nairobi – 1970’s

Uhuru Park

Hotel Roma Nairobi 1970’s

Jomo Kenyatta and his family in Mombasa

On 22 August 1978, President Kenyatta died in Mombasa of natural causes attributable to old age. Mzee Jomo Kenyatta was buried on 31 August 1978 in Nairobi in a state funeral at a mausoleum on Parliament grounds

Mzee!! First Kenyan President Jomo Kenyatta!

President Daniel Arap Moi swears in, in 1978

Kenya’s CIC

President Daniel Arap Moi flagging off cars during the Safari Rally *Originally named the Coronation Safari, by the 1960s the event had become the East African Safari Rally

1963: 11th East African Safari Rally

The East African Safari Rally

The East African Safari Rally

14th East African Safari Rally 1966 winning driver/ co-driver Bert Shankland & Chris Rothwell

Champion of democracy Oginga Odinga poses with: (L-R) Son Odima, daughter Wenwa Akinyi, daughter in-law Ida and son Raila Odinga

The late Martin Shikuku, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Masinde Muliro

Mwai and a fashionable Lucy Kibaki

Mama Ngina Street

Kimathi street – Hilton and New Stanley hotel 1985

Uhuru weds Margaret. She met him in Mombasa and later on tied the knot at Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi in 1989.

Giraffes meet and greet – Nairobi

ELECTRIFYING MOMENT! NYAYO!

Uhuru Kenyatta and his wife during the 1997 Election campaign

Memories of the 90s!

A piece of paradise at Msambweni

One of my regrets whilst producing the TV show ‘Travel Diaries’ was not getting to travel with our camera crew as they  filmed a visit to Msambweni beach house. I remember my cousin, Alister, initially telling me about this unbelievable spot in Ukunda. He said there wasn’t any other place like it along the Kenyan coast and it would make a great destination to feature. Boy was that an understatement!

The owner of Msambweni beach house, Frederik Vanderhoeven, was kind enough to recently invite me over for a holiday. And my experience needs very few words… the pictures captured say it all.

The entrance to Msambweni house

This is truly a luxury holiday experience. One definitely worth putting on your bucket list. It’s about a 40 minute drive from the Ukunda airstrip at the coast and once I got to Msambweni, I could feel my body instantly relax. I guess it’s true, being by water calms, nurtures and recharges you.

In terms of accommodation, Msambweni boasts 3 luxurious private villas that each comfortably sleep 6 people. Each villa also has it’s own uniquely shaped swimming pool. I got to stay in my favourite, Villa 3, with its modern T-shaped infinity pool

Front door of Villa 3

Bed looking out to the sea

 

T shaped infinity pool

The main house has 3 spacious, luxury en-suite rooms with private verandahs plus a breathtaking 25 metre infinity pool

The main house infinity pool

Karibu Msambweni!

There’s also an Ocean suite perfect for couples seeking romance and privacy. Luxury meets rustic here, a tented room with a panoramic sea view.

In terms of activities, you can enjoy massages at the spa facing the sea, a gym, snorkelling, mountain biking, sailing or deep sea fishing as well as walks to the reef

Made it to the reef!

Enjoy a relaxing massage by the beach

Msambweni beach house also has self catering options for groups and i was especially please to find out they don’t charge corkage on drinks you choose to bring.

 

 

Blessed by nature

Experience this incredible piece of paradise for yourself, call +254 722 484 173 for holiday rates or check out Msambweni Beach House

MJ inspired pose at the beach 

No really… call +254 722 484 173 for holiday rates or check out Msambweni Beach House

Growing up in Kenya…Nostalgia

Thank you for sharing Joshua Mbaga… memories for those who grew up in Kenya in the 70’s and 80’s

The great Safari Rally, Kenya

Shan Cinema 1970’s in Ngara

Former World Heavyweight Boxer Mohammed Ali with then President of Kenya Daniel Arap Moi

Miss Kenya 1974

Miss Kenya 1972

Our earlier drink of choice

Goody goody!!

Traffic askari

Pound (Blue)

Kenya Power Bill in 1973

SARUNI SAMBURU – TOP KENYAN DESTINATION

Samburu land stretches from the foothills of Mt Kenya into the North, which makes up the wild beauty of Kenya’s outback. Here you will find open spaces, serenity and some of the best opportunities for game safaris as well as other outdoor activities.

Apart from the new tarmac road leading from Isiolo towards Marsabit, there is no other stretch of Kenya’s wild North so easily accessible.

Encounter the fascinating pastoralist culture of the Samburu people who lent the land their name and are also cousins of the famous Masai.

24 Jun 2012, Samburu National Reserve, Kenya — Samburu warrior on top of Ololokwe mountain, Kenya — Image by © Frederic Courbet/Corbis

The Ololokwe mountain, the scared mountain where prayers are said and blessings are given, signifies you’re in Samburu land.

Saruni Samburu is surrounded by a private wildlife conservancy, and perched on a spectacular view point on top of the Kalama mountains, with an unbelievable view of Kenya’s wild north, right from your room.

The vastness and purity of the Samburu landscape will make every visit a unique experience. So quiet, so serene, its beauty is jaw dropping!

The Ewaso Nyiro River which means ‘brown water’ in Maa, the joint language of Masai and Samburu, flows from the misty Aberdare Range and Mt. Kenya through Samburu land before merging with the huge Lorian Swamp further to the East. This river’s water is the ultimate lifeline for man and his cattle as well as for the huge herds of game.

Surrounded by doum palms and the sound of nature, once again, your body just relaxes. The scenery is picture perfect, you can truly feel the spirit of Samburu.

Back at Saruni, a massage session like no other was waiting for me. It’d bet a good amount of money there isn’t one in the world that could compare! I think the picture says it all #MassageWithaView

Perfect sundowners, remarkable vantage points, an extraordinary way to deepen your connection with Kenya’s northern frontier – Samburu.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

http://www.sarunisamburu.com

Saruni Reservations Office Contacts


Office mobile: +254 (0) 735 950 903
Office landline: +254 (0) 202 180 497

Reservations – reservations@saruni.com

SAGANA WHITE WHITE RAFTING & BUNGEE JUMPING

*Thumps chest Tarzan style* “Bring on the adventure!!!!!” ….but wait, what are the chances of me dying here? Adventure sports is not for the faint hearted, which makes me probably the least suitable candidate for it! But hey, we had a Travel show to film, so i figured why not step out of my comfort zone?!

Luckily we live in a country that provides both unique and thrilling experiences when it comes to adventure sports. And we found a few great options that exist within the most beautiful natural settings, at the Savage Wilderness Camp.

Sagana is a small town 100 kilometres north of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It’s name comes from Kenya’s longest river, Tana River. Pass the Embu/Nyeri junction towards Nyeri, and then branch off onto a dirt road to the camp

Now imagine how pleased i was (NOT!!!) when i found out i had to tackle 2 activities in one day! Besides white water rafting, i was also going to experience my first ever bungee jump! (I threw up a little in my mouth) Sagana also offers outdoor activities, team building and zip lining across the river all under the close supervision of very professional staff.

White water rafting is a challenging activity using an inflatable raft to navigate a river. This is usually done in white water and different degrees of rough water, in order to thrill and excite (though that’s debatable) the raft passengers. Rafting in Kenya has been popular for over 20 years and has some of the best rafting on the continent.

You don’t have to be in perfect shape nor do you need swimming skills for this. Just be mentally prepared for the various rapids and differing strengths and please pay attention when the instructor gives you tips on how to handle them.

I have to admit, i ABSOLUTELY LOVED white water rafting! It was such a rush!

We fell out a few times, were bounced around a lot and i must have swallowed 2 gallons of water when i took on the ‘Devils Toilet’. I think i must have i banged my head against a rock, as i was the first to volunteer to hurtle down into the dreaded Devils toilet bowl. You get swallowed and swished around in the water…kinda like being flushed around in a toilet bowl “Gulp gulp gulp”

If you want to go totally nuts, (and i seemed to be surrounded by a lot of that) how about jumping off the waterfall along the route into the cool waters of the Tana River below

Available too is Kayaking a challenging recreational activity using a plastic boat to navigate a river or other bodies of water. A physically challenging but thrilling experience!!!

Bungee jumping is for the daring and has become more popular in Kenya too. The weight limit is between 40kg to 110 kgs, and you will be jumping off a custom built steel tower 200 meters above. With the view of the Tana river below.

Feeling a sense of euphoria and confidence after surviving the rafting, i exclaimed in glee “Next we bungee jump!!!” And then i looked around and everyone else had taken off! Buggers!!!!

At the same venue, Bungeewalla Limited run a great bungee jump experience, off the tower right above the Tana River. First of all you’ll be weighed in to make sure you’re within the approved weight limit. And if you think a couple of tequilas will help take the edge off, forget it! You’re not allowed to attempt this whilst tipsy or otherwise (DARN IT)

To be quite honest, the hardest part of the bungee jump for me was climbing up the 178 steps to the top of the tower. By the time i huffed and puffed my way up, i probably fell out the steel cage due to exhaustion more than anything 🙂

I can’t really put into words what that fall felt like. There’s just nothing to quite describe it! Though if you were there to witness it, the words that I used the most were “Holy sh*t! aaarghhh!! Bleep Bleep AAAAAAArghhhhhhh BLEEPING BLEEP”

All in all, a once in a lifetime experience and i would highly recommend both activities to anyway thrill-seeking, fun-loving or mad as a hatter human being!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

WHITE WATER RAFTING http://www.savagewilderness.org

BUNGEE JUMPING Email : reblin@mitsuminet.com
Telephone : +254 712 3094 / +254 733 613 132 / +254 734 819 361

BORANA CONSERVANCY

With beautiful landscape and incredible views, the Borana conservancy is a shining example of how important conservation is for the Kenyan economy and community at large

Overlooking the Samangua valley, the Lewa plains, including the Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya, this location provides the ultimate off road adventure.

Attractions are in plenty with amazing sights on your game drive.

Nature and sports lovers will enjoy a ride on mountain bikes through the conservancy with frequent sightings of Giraffe, Gazelles and Zebra. However my camera man was laughing hysterically at how bad i am at riding a bicycle and I’m pretty sure i heard a Zebra ‘hee haw’ at me as I wobbled past! Hmph…i still had to worry about being cool despite being in the bush 😦

Or experience the ultimate safari on horse back ,where you can get pretty close to the wildlife around. I never got to ask if it’d work with a Pride of Lions though! Erm…probably NOT!

From fly fishing, to buggies and quad bike safaris as well as paragliding for the more daring, a stay at Borana Lodge is never dull!

A visit to the Ngare Ndare forest will be memorable though i admit i was grumbling and sweating all the way up and down the trek. But I quickly changed my tune once i got to the main attractions *insert gasp here* It started off with a trek to the natural rock pool, a serene safe haven, where you can actually jump off the rock into the deep waters below very safely and enjoy a forest pool swim. Another steep trek down will get you to the stunning waterfall, which the British army use as part of their training .

 

Ngare ndare forest promises a very unique forest canopy walk, unlike most bush or forest walks, this takes place on a 400 meter long stretch whilst your route is suspended above the ground. There have been many times nature enthusiasts have been walking above with elephants roaming around below. Erm…just hope the Elephant don’t stay put for hours below you, otherwise that would be awkward!

Borana conservancy in Laikipia, a stunning combination of scenery adventure and Kenya’s call of the wild

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

WEBSITE http://www.borana.co.ke

TEL +254 20 2115453
EMAIL bookings@borana.co.ke

TROUT TREE NANYUKI

Looking for a fun weekend getaway in Kenya? Now I don’t know about you but the elements I look for in a weekend holiday are good company, a unique location and a balance between fun and relaxation. And my friends and I found just the place at Trout Tree Nanyuki

It’s is located less than 100m off the main Kiganjo-Nanyuki Road and 3km from the Nanyuki Airstrip.  Built in and around a huge Sacred Fig Tree, the restaurant serves fresh trout from the trout ponds below, char-grilled to perfection.

Surrounded by lots of pretty flowers and greenery, the restaurant can seat up to 60 people and has some adorable resident Colobus Monkeys I managed to meet in person and cute Tree Hyrax.

The unique Tree house style restaurant with its windy staircase sets an exciting atmosphere and is a huge hit with children as well as the young at heart

They also have a play area for kids, or perhaps in the case of Soulo and I, oversized children! Excited about the prospect of choosing our own fish we headed down to the trout tree ponds to place our order. Here u can watch them catch the fish fresh from the water, make your selection and have them cleaned and ready for grilling.

Another unique feature at trout tree is being able to order your refreshments straight out of the pond. The crates of sodas and beers are attached to the pulley system and you can pass the time waiting for your meal, by pulling up your order of drinks!

If its perfectly grilled trout you’re looking for then trout tree is the spot to visit whether as a family or group of friends. Their menu also includes prime Laikipia beef and vegetarian options, while at weekends a kids’ menu is available and the pizza oven is fired up.

Nestled in the lower end of the Trout Farm, Creaky Cottage provides memorable and unique accommodation.  Set in a tranquil corner, by the Buruget river, this self-contained cottage sleeps up to 6 people.

Creaky Cottage is so named because it is built around a huge evergreen Podo tree that towers over and shelters the house.

For those who would rather not cook, meals can be ordered from the restaurant.  As I was assigned kitchen duty for the night, we decided to freshen up and head to nearby Nanyuki town to get some groceries and do some exploring.

There’s lots to do in Nanyuki with plenty of interesting and creative roadside curios.

We also found the perfect place to buy some meat to cook for dinner but couldn’t resist the smell of nyamachoma and enjoyed a tasty and pocket friendly meal at the same time.

You must visit the Lily pond arts centre which has a lovely restaurant. We however, had greedily enjoyed two meals already, so opted to just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Back at creaky cottage, a cook can be organized to assist you with whatever preparations are necessary for your meals and their kitchen is fully functional.

The next morning after a very well rested night, we set up breakfast in the garden of trout trees creaky cottage, with the sound of the river in the background as you chat… and with the pretty rays of sunshine beaming through the trees, this was a beautiful end to a fun and relaxing weekend in Nanyuki with great friends!

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ORA RESORT WATAMU

I must say I’m obsessed with Watamu!!! What a little piece of paradise along Kenya’s coast

And in the small town of Watamu, I found a quiet resort to enjoy an incredible holiday. Ora Resort. Located at the entrance of the Watamu Marine Park, this hotel offers stunning sandy white beaches and enchanting ocean views accessible from any part of the Hotel.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities and the first thing I did was change and head off to the sand bank in Watamu bay that emerges during low tide. Clear white sand, warm sunshine on your back and only the sounds of the sea…erm and yes, my cliche wanna be model poses! 🙂

Ora Resort boasts of 200 rooms that are divided into single or double floor bungalows set in lush green gardens.  Each room has wide windows with views of the Ocean and come equipped with air conditions, safes, telephones, a Veranda and outside seating. Each room can accommodate up to a maximum of 3 adults or 2 adults + 2 children.

It’s a miracle I didn’t turn into a snotty nosed brat after this holiday, especially after the treatment I received from their spa!! You have the option of setting up a massage session out by the pool if you prefer.

A little TLC…

Working up an almost frightening suntan, I took full advantage of their two swimming pools; one is quiet and secluded or if you need some exercise their second pool is always very lively with regular music and exercise routines

Dinner was a grand affair and on my way to the evening cocktails I couldn’t resist first stopping by their telescope to do a bit of star gazing.

I was in great company and chatted away and enjoyed delicious cocktails before we sat down to a special dinner set up in the garden. A special sea food dinner that comprised of crab, shrimp, octopus and red snapper as well as plenty of chicken and lamb chops for the meat lovers. I didn’t dare step on a weighing scale for months thereafter!!!

A popular activity in Watamu is snorkeling in the Watamu Marine Park, I was transported into a whole different world, with pretty coloured fish, interesting coral formations and the beautiful sights under the sea. A truly magical experience.

For the more daring, kite surfing has become quite trendy along the coast and there are instructors available to will provide the equipment and instructions needed

Back at the resort, the lunch call is always a celebration of song and dance and they encourage you to join in the fun!!

Lunch time!!

Customary lunch time celebrations

Best….holiday….EVER!!!!!!

 

Soaking in paradise

DESERT ROSE

I was tingling with excitement as the Travel Diaries crew set out on what we knew would be a great adventure, to a place that had only been described as the holy land…the origin of life… spiritual and pure. We would have to drive many hours to get to this special lodge on the slopes of a holy mountain, Mount Nyiru.

Early start to Desert Rose

As the landscape starts to change, the anticipation grows, wondering when we would finally arrive and just how beautiful could this spot be compared to others

The drive up was an experience in itself, at a very steep incline. Only an experienced driver will have the nerves to get you safely to the top.

Desert rose is a unique eco friendly lodge located on the slopes of Mt Nyiru  which towers majestically above the Elbarta plains, between Karisia Mountains and Lake Turkana. Considered holy by the Samburu people most important celebrations of the community traditionally take place at the top of the mountain. They claim a visit to desert rose is life changing, if there ever was a perfect place to find inner peace, to meditate or reflect upon life, its right here.

Pool view of Mt Nyiru, Desert Rose

A stay at Desert Rose is very relaxed and serene and you can spend a lot of the time walking around their pretty garden and lawns, lounging by the pool and taking in the sights or relaxing with a good book

Since this is considered a spiritual spot, I then went further out in search of their labyrinth.

The Labyrinth

The labyrinth has long been used as a creative or spiritual tool. It’s a meditation tool consisting of an intricate single line path and can calm a distracted or over active mind. They say when troubled by disturbing emotions or unfortunate events in your life, walking a labyrinth can help resolve your inner discomfort and still your mind enough for you to get clarity of what is going on.

Walking within the labyrinth

Peace and Serenity

Accommodation consists of five unique houses, two cottages with double beds, two twins and a family house. The houses are entirely secluded, which guarantees comfort and intimacy. All are hand-made and individually designed around various natural features.

Lunch proved to be an exciting and grand affair. It started off with a short walk from the lodge through the forest. And it opened up to a beautiful sight and perfect location for a meal.

You may have been entertained by traditional dancers at modern hotels but nothing beats the authenticity of experiencing it in a forest!

Our journey back to Nairobi wasn’t an easy one with lots of car trouble and break downs along the way, almost a slap of reality after spending a few days under a magic spell at Desert Rose.

Road trouble

Spiritual, remote and hidden on the slopes of Mt Nyiru. Desert Rose is guaranteed to be one of the most scenic spots in Kenya you’ll ever experience.

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segments, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download travel segments via Android only

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

What is the name of the Holy Mountain that Desert Rose is built on?

Winners will be announced every Friday

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MALU NAIVASHA

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s visit to Malu in Naivasha as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

Luxury tree houses, a lush green forest, a magical forest plunge pool and throw in a few cows and chickens? “Tell me more, I’m intrigued” I said to Lucy who was researching on hidden holiday gems in Kenya.

A gem it truly turned out to be, I honestly couldn’t believe this was the first time I was hearing about Malu lodge in the Naivasha area.

Nestled in an ancient forest with sweeping views over the Great Rift Valley, Malu is a stunning getaway and the perfect base for exploring the Rift Valley and many national parks and just a 90 minute drive from Nairobi.

Fifty years ago the entire escarpment was covered with this forest—now the Malu section is almost the only piece remaining, making this area of vital importance to the bird and wildlife of the area, as well as the fragile Naivasha basin ecosystem. You have the freedom to walk and ride through one of East Africa’s original highland forests, where leopard, buffalo and zebra roam. Their horses & mountain bikes provide a unique close encounter with this untouched wilderness.

Children especially love Malu lodge for its opportunities for contact with the physical world. They provide unique opportunities for bird watching, horse riding, donkey cart rides, and mountain bike activities as well as feeding of their farm animals.

Walks range from gentle strolls to challenging hikes, and there are superb riding trails for both novices and the more experienced. A unique plunge pool built into the Mahindu stream amidst overhanging figs and vines is fed by natural hot water springs, perfect for a relaxing dip.

Their accommodation ranges from family villas to cottages and a large tree house

Malu is the last remaining indigenous cedar forest on the eastern rift between Longonot & Nakuru, and is recognized as an area of vital importance to the fragile ecosystem of the Naivasha basin.

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Malu, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download highlights from ‘Malu Naivasha’ via Android only bit.ly/1yYTmOb

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the blog’s comment section:

How many minutes drive is Malu from Nairobi?

Winners will be announced every Friday

Baringo County

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s hiking experience with her friends Koitaba and Danny in Baringo, as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

The Great Rift Valley

The Rift Valley boasts some of the most breathtaking sights, stretching from the Middle East, down through Africa. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many of the lakes in the Eastern Rift Valley such as Lake Turkana, Baringo, Elementaita and so on but never fully took advantage of the hiking trails that have opened up in Baringo.

Lake Elementaita

A road trip through the Great Rift is most enjoyable due to the beautiful landscapes, views with plenty of farming in the area. Our first stop was at Mogotio in Baringo county as our guide William Kimosop showed us the county’s tourist information centre. If you wish to go on a hike, they will provide you with all the information required such as mapping of trails and exposing the various attractions in the area that one can enjoy. You can also ask for an experienced guide to accompany you on your hike.

Tourism information centre, Mogotio

We headed off to the Radat trail and we were most excited to discover a trail rich in history, apparently used during the days of the explorers, slave trade, introduction of Islam and Christianity. Needless to say it’s a historical hiking route. It runs through Bogoria, over the Tugen Hills into the Kerio Valley and terminates at Chororget in the Keiyo Escarpment. Due to the fact that it runs right across the Rift Valley, Its been christened “The Trans Rift Trails”

The Trans Rift trails

Trans Rift Trails

This trail utilizes the same footpaths used by the local community but opens it up for visitor use. Tourists and general visitors can disembark at different points and walk it for as long as they like

Heading to Radat River

Beautiful trek down to Radat river

We also made our way to the river at Radat, that the community use as a source of water as well as a crossing point and makes for a very beautiful and serene resting spot after a long hike.

Radat River

Resting at Radat river

Trek back up with Radat river in the background

We stayed over in a farm house that night, and we were well rested and ready for another full day of hiking in Baringo county.

Sunset in Baringo county

Our host, Kimosop, brought us to a beautiful sight the next morning, the Lembus forest. A safe and exciting trek through the lush green trees and bushes.

Lembus forest

Nature walk in the forest

And we came out at the Pekera river that flows from the resting spot I had enjoyed at Radat river

Pekera river

Pekera river

Resting at Pekera river

Our last hike we all agreed produced the most breathtaking sight yet! The high forested slopes of Kapkut overlooking the start of the Kerio valley. The Kapkut triangle is the highest point in Baringo county and the headwater source for Kerio river, Lake Baringo and Lake Turkana.

Kapkut Triangle

Resting at the top

What a great discovery in Baringo county, its not only scenic but a unique location for so much nature and history to be discovered by foot.

Note: If you would like to plan a hike in Baringo, contact William Kimosop on 0720317760

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Baringo, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download ‘Baringo County’ via Android only bit.ly/1IDWjU5 (make sure your data is turned on and wifi off)

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

What is the highest point in Baringo county?

Winners will be announced every Friday

JOYS CAMP, SHABA…Born Free land

Read all about Eve D’Souza’s visit to Joy’s Camp as well as details at the end on how you can win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus every week!

Who didn’t love watching “Born Free”?! No seriously…who? Stand up so I can pinch your nose! I vividly remember the first time I watched it as a young girl, sitting on the cool sitting room floor in our family home in Mombasa. Wide eyed in wonder. I was convinced that the actors Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers were actually Joy and George Adamson, I mean no one else in the world was crazy enough to play with lions right?

In case you’ve been asleep for over 30 years and have never heard of ‘Born Free” it was Joy Adamson’s sentimental and moving account of how she raised to maturity a wild club, Elsa and returned it to live freely in the wild. Since moving to Nairobi, I’ve watched “Born Free” six times over and each time, I’m still enthralled and caught up in the Adamsons’ story that casts an irresistible enchantment. This film makes you fall in love over and over again with not only Lions but the vast wilderness of Kenya.

Born free land – Shaba pic via acebourke.wordpress.com

Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers who played Joy and George Adamson in the movie Born Free

Joy Adamson

Joy Adamson and Elsa

So you can only imagine my excitement when ‘Travel diaries’ set off to film in Shaba and more specifically, Joy’s Camp, built on the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home in Shaba National Reserve.

Joys camp, built where Joy Admson lived in Shaba. via chelipeacock.com

The spirit of Joy Adamson still lives strong in the area, rich with her history, a favourite with film crews and provides for a very special holiday in the wild. The camp overlooks a large natural spring where wildlife frequent as a source of water in this otherwise dry and hot area.

via chelipeacock.com

There are pictures of Joy’s old camp at the lodge, and a small gallery of Joy Adamson memorabilia, which includes her original driving license amongst other very interesting personal possessions

I was eager to explore and immediately set out on a drive to learn more about the area she had called home. A few minutes from the camp we stopped at the spot where Joy Adamson had been stabbed and murdered by one of her workers who confessed he killed her because she refused to pay him for two weeks of work. She died on the 3^rd of January 1980

Joy and Elsa via classicsafaricamps.com

Bird watchers will also love this spot as its the only place you can find the Williams lark bird, very rare to see and difficult to film. This park was made famous by the “Born Free” film but Karen Blixen based movie “Out of Africa” was also partly shot in the Shaba reserve.

Meryl Streep in Out of Africa

Robert Redford and Meryl Streep in a scene from Out of Africa

Joy Adamson with Penny the leopard

We also visited Penny’s rock, where a female leopard named Penny whom Joy raised at her home at Lake Naivasha, was eventually released to the wild. Further up was an abandoned film base where we were told the 1999 movie based on George Adamson, ‘To walk with lions’ was filmed and you can still see the high directors tower from which scenes with the lions were filmed as well as abandoned cages where the lions for the movie were kept

Abandoned Directors tower – To Walk with Lions

Cages the Lions for the movie were kept in

Father of Lions – George Adamson

A lion rests after taking his fill of Zebra, whilst George Adamson keeps him company

The Shaba gorge was the stunning backdrop for the popular TV series survivor Africa and I huffed and puffed my way through the stunning and impressive trek for two hours and was treated to a champagne breakfast for my efforts!

Shaba gorge via davidandersonsafaris.com

Shaba gorge via furstenberg-safaris.com

Champagne breakfast via cheliandpeacock.com

Shaba is a picturesque and secluded location; rocky hills and landscape, with lush springs and river gorges… and Joy’s Camp is the perfect choice for discerning guests interested in a glimpse of Kenya’s history, as well as those looking for an authentic wildlife experience

Elsa relaxed on camp bed via geocaching.com

George and Joy Adamson

George Adamson via oldlinesafari.com

GIVE AWAY – BRAND NEW PHONE EACH WEEK!

Galaxy Trend plus

To watch our Travel Diaries video segment on Joys camp, download the Safaricom ‘MY TUNES’ app for android off Play Store today and visit the Travel section. You will find the link to download ‘Joys Camp’ via Android only bit.ly/1BYgNEK

To win a brand new Galaxy Trend plus phone, simply answer this question in the comment section:

On what date did Joy Adamson die? (Full date)

Winners will be announced every Friday

FISHING AMATEURS AT THEIR BEST

In season 3, Eve went fishing in Kiambu with local fishing expert Muffadal, Soulo of Capital fm and Alex Holi. Here’s some behind the scenes footage from the day! Needless to say it didn’t make it to the segment

THE MT KENYA ANIMAL ORPHANAGE – NANYUKI

Back in Season 2 of our travel show, “Travel Diaries” my mind was blown at the Mt Kenya Animal orphanage on the Fairmont Mt Kenya Safari club grounds…feed monkeys, ride tortoises, hand feed endangered Mountain Bongo as well as the ostrich, and i was most amused as the sight of the Zebroid (part Zebra, part Horse) as well as the 3 cute pigmy hippo. The Mount Kenya animal orphanage and mount Kenya wildlife conservancy have rescued over 1500 animals and returned them to the wild. i’d definitely recommend it as an amazing family visit

AMAZING HIGHLIGHTS OF KENYA’S NATIONAL PARKS – DISCOVER KENYA

THE FLOATING HOUSE IN KILIFI – Eve D’Souza

Call it sticking to my comfort zone, or extreme laziness (more accurate) but every time I’d go home to Mombasa for the holidays, I’d be more than comfortable to vegetate at our family beach house. My cousins would rave on about their day trips to Kilifi, which was only a 40 minute drive away. But like a sweaty beached whale, I convinced myself the Mombasa sun makes it humanly impossible to move any limbs, thus my visit to Kilifi was shelved.

Dhows in Kilifi creek

Bofa beach Kilifi via thomson.co.uk

It took filming the travel show, “Travel Diaries” to finally get me to Kilifi. And boy did I feel super daft that I hadn’t made an effort to visit this tropical paradise earlier! Kilifi is a small coastal town located on the Kilifi creek between Mombasa and Watamu. With so much to offer it is surprising this spot has stayed relatively quiet and free from crowds all these years!

This is where we found a holiday spot like no other in Kenya – The floating house.

Floating house Kilifi

View of the Kilifi bridge from the floating house

Excited about the prospect of sleeping out on the water, the first thing I did when we arrived was jump into their boat and head across to our new home for the weekend. As the boat gets closer you can’t help feel a tinge of anxiety and excitement.

The Floating house – travelingkenya

Great house for water lovers – travelingkenya

This very unique floating house is available to rent at a very affordable price per night and sleeps 6 people. Need less to say, ideal for families or groups of friends, especially if you love the water!!

Courtesy 3degreessouth

The floating house

The floating house is equipped a fully functional kitchen where you can cook all your meals, with running water and electricity. The bedrooms are airy and comfortable, with one double, bunk beds and a twin. The upper deck provides for great views all across the creek.

One of the bedrooms – travelingkenya

Bathroom in the floating house – travelingkenya

Kitchen facilities in the floating house – travelingkenya

Built almost entirely using hardwood, the floating house is permanently anchored a few meters from the shore The following morning, I woke up early to try catch the sunrise and cook breakfast, the fish weren’t left out as you get to feed them from the side of the house as well. As quiet and serene it is out on the creek there’s lots of water action in store. Starting off with jumping off your house straight into the water for a cool swim. It does take you back to your childhood days and this I imagine would be popular with everyone no matter what age, well as long as you can swim!

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

Courtesy 3degreessouth

3 Degrees South provide excellent and affordable water sports activities within the creek and are based at the boatyard. Having worked up an appetite and too lazy to cook, I chose to take the boat across to the boatyard restaurant and order their legendary world-class crab samosas. Sea food lovers will find this an absolute treat and this is the very places in Kenya you can sample the best crab samosas on offer.

The boatyard restaurant

There’s also stunning Bofa beach to stroll along and a visit to the gorgeous Mnarani Club in Kilifi

Bofa Beach Kilifi

Mnarani Club, Kilifi

Bofa beach

View of the Kilifi creek

To wrap up the holiday by the creek in a special way, Boatyard can organize a memorable sundowner out on a dhow. With the cool calm water lapping at your feet, the hot sun preparing to go down and just one or two boats out on the creek… enjoy a slice of serene coastal heaven in Kilifi.

Out on the water

The calm waters of Kilifi

Sunset in Kilifi

INFORMATION ON KILIFI FLOATING HOUSE Contact information +254 722 442 334 +254 723 146 291 Restaurant:
+254 20 350 9505 Sleeps six people maximum in one double, bunk beds and two singles. Check in time after 2pm. Check out time before 11am on day of departure. The master bedroom has a mosquito net and fan. The Floating house is serviced daily and there is 24 hour dinghy service to the shore. Kilifi Yacht Club Beach Bar and Restaurant is fully licensed and open daily from 7am to 7pm serving delicious food. Dhow trips can be arranged and contacts given for other activities. Water sport activities are available at Kilifi Boatyard through www.3degreessouth.co.ke Anne: +254 714 757 763 Email: info@3degreessouth.co.ke