Day Nine

The previous night with a blackout was quite intense as we had to complete packing with flash lights. However, since blackouts in Kenya were not new to us, everyone adapted to it and prepared for our early departure for the Maasai Mara adventure.

We started today at 7 am with barely charged phones and sleepy eyes. We stopped at the ArtCaffe, what we call “the Starbucks of Kenya” for breakfast. We charged our phones while there. People also bought authentic Kenyan coffee beans and cookies. The breakfast definitely energized and prepared us for the drive to Maasai Mara. En route, we stopped at the Great Rift Valley where we encountered monkeys and breathtaking scenery of mountains covered in mist. It was sprinkling but the weather was just perfect. After a bathroom break and observation of the scenery, we took some group pictures. There was a souvenir store there which offered similar items that we explored in the open-air market in Nairobi, but at double the price. Since we already immersed ourselves in Kenyan culture, we were well-prepared for bargaining. After the purchase of our souvenirs and honing our bargaining skills, we got better deals than we anticipated. Then, with lots of laughter and bags full of souvenirs, we headed on our way with a plan to stop for lunch.

We transitioned from an urban to rural landscape. As we came closer to Maasai Mara, we saw many people from the Maasai community with their vibrant colorful plaid, called Maasai Shuka cloth. We also encountered grazing cattle, sheep, and goats, guided by long sticks in the shepherds’ hands, many of whom were children and adolescents (a common practice in these rural communities). After hours of continuous driving we stopped for lunch– rice, chapati, gravy, and extras. Dr. Breitwieser tried bone marrow for the first time, which she said was not bad but had an odd texture. We again found another souvenir shop there, likely the largest of all. However, we decided we had seen enough, as all the stores were pretty much the same. With our happy tummies, we proceeded to our hotel. 

After a few more hours of driving, we finally arrived, being greeted with refreshing juices at the gate. It was a very nice gesture! We checked in and headed to our rooms which were individual cottages. To relax and unwind after the long trip, some of us dipped into the shallow lodge pool. Dinner started around 7:30 pm, so we gathered at the dining hall. So many options to choose from! We appreciated our dinner and called it a day.

By Sandipa