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Straddling the equator, Kenya extends from the Indian Ocean to the plateaus and plains of the Great Rift Valley. The coastal region is hot and humid, with beautiful sandy beaches, lagoons, and swamps, and patches of rainforest lining the shore. Vast, dry plains cover much of the country, with generally poor soils supporting only scattered plant life. Most of Kenya's population lives in rural areas in the central highlands and on the fertile plateau near Lake Victoria, farming and raising livestock for a living. Kenya boasts a spectacular variety of wild animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinoceroses, and zebras, that attract thousands of tourists every year.
The focus of our Kenya program is a homestay in the Maasai village of Merrueshi, where we will work on a community school project in support of the Maasai culture. During our stay in Merrueshi you will share in the daily lives of the Maasai and will live and eat in the local way. Our accommodations are simple yet comfortable, and the food is locally grown and nourishing. In the mornings, we will go on nature walks with Maasai warriors. The village is located very close to Amboseli National Park, and it is common to see zebras, giraffes, and other wildlife. We will also learn about local watering holes and the native plants used for food and medicine. Other activities include meetings with community members, Maasai language lessons, fireside chats, and storytelling. This program offers a truly unique and authentic experience. Merrueshi is not on the tourist route, and our visit is made possible only by a very special invitation from Maasai warrior Kakuta Ole Maimai and his elders. Their hospitality and generosity will humble and inspire you.
During the project we will take time to go on safari with our Maasai guides to nearby Amboseli National Park as well as to Tsavo West National Park. On your safari you will witness the amazing strength of Kenya’s conservation programs. Our journey ends in Nairobi where we will visit thriving markets and enjoy a final farewell dinner. |
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Maasai & Amboseli National Park
Program length: 13 days
Dates:
01 Aug to 13 Aug, 2009
11 Aug to 23 Aug, 2009
05 Dec to 17 Dec, 2009
Grade: Easy-Moderate
Price: $3,520 plus airfare
Sample Itinerary (PDF)
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for Kenya! |
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Highlights!
Maasai Homestay
Development project
Village markets
Nature walks with Maasai
Amboseli & Tsavo West Parks
Tour of Nairobi |
