By Alfrique O. Mwana
One bright morning, the Johnson family began a journey that would inspire their love for the outdoors and commitment to protecting nature. Sarah had carefully planned the trip, hoping to take a break from Nairobi’s busy lifestyle and explore Kenya’s unspoiled wilderness.
Her husband, Mark, and their two energetic children, Lily and Sam, shared her enthusiasm. They were intrigued by her stories about Kwenia Eco Lodge, its dedication to eco-friendly tourism, and the breathtaking landscapes of Kajiado County.
As they journeyed away from the city, the scenery transformed dramatically, shifting from urban chaos to vast savannah expanses adorned with acacia trees. The morning sun bathed the landscape in golden light, and as they passed herds of zebras grazing beneath the open skies, the family felt a mounting thrill. Sam and Lily, eyes wide with amazement, pressed their noses against the car windows, captivated by the wildlife that danced across their view. Upon arriving at Kwenia Eco Lodge, the staff welcomed them warmly with harmonious Maasai melodies and vibrant dance displays.
The atmosphere felt refreshingly different, and the lodge had an eco-friendly design, constructed with local elements to blend into the surrounding splendour seamlessly, a delightful fusion of comfort and conservation. The manyattas of the lodge were crafted using locally sourced materials, enabling them to meld into the landscape while minimizing environmental footprints.
Thatched roofs, rustic wooden decks, and stone pathways displayed an earthy charm that connected guests with the land, while modern conveniences ensured a plush stay. Solar panels crowned the rooftops, and a sophisticated rainwater collection system guaranteed a sustainable energy and water supply, epitomizing the lodge’s steadfast commitment to nature.
The noon sun hung high above, and fatigue washed over them from the scorching heat and bumpy journey. The family settled into their quarters, embracing the snug, tented cottages characterized by a grass-thatched roof designed to keep the heat at bay. Sarah and Mark’s magnificent king’s room tent was spacious, boasting large windows that framed the stunning panoramas of nature and majestic hills. Lily and Sam relished the comfort of their twin-tented room, equally surrounded by awe-inspiring views.
After refreshing themselves, the family, accompanied by Juma, a passionate and well-versed ranger, delved into the Kwenia Conservancy on a nature expedition. This haven, brimming with wildlife, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The conservancy is home to many animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, antelopes, and zebras. As they strolled along, Juma enlightened them about the vibrant wildflowers and illustrated the significance of each plant within the ecosystem. His stories captivated the children, especially his account of how elephants communicate across vast distances through low-frequency rumbles. As they ventured deeper into the conservancy, the family stumbled upon a tranquil gathering of elephants grazing beneath the baobab tree. The moment was etched in their memories forever. Juma explained how elephants act as ecosystem architects, moulding the landscape as they wander, forging pathways, and spreading seeds. Mark and Sarah exchanged knowing glances, acutely aware of how profound this experience would be for their family, especially in grasping the fragile harmony of nature.
The sun was heading for the horizon as they returned to the lodge. The golden rays were softer to the skin and glowed like a ball of fire. They walked into the lodge led by their shadows and headed straight for the restraint to grab a glass of cold juice. Mark relished his refreshing fruit juice while the children animatedly recounted their day’s adventures, filling the dining area with peals of laughter and unbridled joy. Darkness enveloped the landscape; the lodge transformed into a serene, almost delightful haven. An aroma of delicious food from the kitchen invited the family back to the restaurant for a buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy restaurant dinner or bush dinner under the acacia trees overlooking the mountains. Lantern lamps are artistically placed on the tree branches to illuminate the ground as you dig into your plate.
The lodge workers set up the bonfire arena as Sarah and her family enjoyed dinner. Under shimmering stars, the family cosied up with fellow travellers around a crackling bonfire, weaving tales together and nurturing a sense of unity that transcended their diverse backgrounds. Soft music played around them as travellers enjoyed the heat from the fire whilst relishing their drinks as others cuddled, covered in their red or blue Maasai shukas. A cold breeze from the hills blew across, causing the fire to blow up, as crickets chirped. Soon guests, began to surrender to the power of sleep; one by one, they left the arena for their rooms, as did Sarah and her family.
With the first light of dawn and barely a murmur on the horizon, Sarah and family eagerly prepared for an enchanting sunrise safari. As the sun’s golden beams gently awakened the savannah, they were greeted by a regal pride of lions, their majestic forms silhouetted against the kaleidoscopic sky. The children were fascinated, and even Mark, a passionate nature enthusiast, found himself mesmerized by the stunning panorama unfolding before their eyes. Juma led them deeper into the wild, unveiling a scene where giraffes elegantly nibbled on treetop leaves, zebras strolled, and a solitary cheetah basked in the dappled sunlight. Each moment was a vibrant testament to the breathtaking ecosystem and the urgent need for its guardianship. Juma shared insights about Kwenia Eco Lodge’s commitment to conservation efforts and partnering with local communities to help wildlife to thrive. As he spoke, the Johnsons experienced an enlightening realization of their role in preserving these natural wonders.
Later in the day, the lodge launched an inspiring tree-planting initiative, inviting guests to join in the essential reforestation quest. Each family member gently nestled a sapling into the lush, earthy embrace, exchanging laughter and tales as they toiled together. The children imagined the trees stretching skyward, providing sanctuary for myriad creatures and showing their dedication to cherishing the land. This shared adventure deepened their appreciation for conservation, demonstrating how even the tiniest actions can create a lasting impact on the environment. After lunch, Sarah and Mark lounged by the pool, reliving the morning’s safari, while the children reveled in the play area before joyfully diving into the refreshing waters.
At the lodge, every day brims with adventure and leisure activities tailored for all interests. Alongside captivating nature walks and thrilling safaris, guests can try their hand at archery, guided by skilled instructors on a well-equipped range surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Friendly competition takes center stage with an exhilarating game of pool or leisurely bike rides exploring the lodge’s serene surroundings.
For those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, classic board games like Scrabble, Monopoly, and Chess provide the perfect opportunity to engage in strategy and fun. The highlight for many, however, is the gun shooting range. With prior reservations, guests can explore a variety of guns, from sleek pistols to powerful hunting guns and assault rifles. Under the guidance of a range safety officer, in a safe and controlled environment.
As twilight painted the skies, the family gathered to witness a mesmerizing dance performance by a local Maasai troupe. The dancers, adorned in vibrant traditional regalia, moved with breathtaking energy, their rhythmic leaps and twirls perfectly synced to the pulsating beat of the drums.
Enthralled by the joyous spectacle, Sam and Lily couldn’t resist the magnetic pull of the dance. Their laughter mingled with the lively melodies as they joined the troupe, attempting to mirror the graceful movements of the Maasai dancers. It was a jubilant celebration—a heartwarming tribute to life, culture, and heritage—wrapping up a day rich in unforgettable moments.
As their adventure concluded, the Johnsons pondered the countless moments they had relished. They had witnessed awe-inspiring wildlife, participated in meaningful conservation endeavours, and nurtured a more profound admiration for Kenya’s vibrant cultural mosaic. The collective experiences at Kwenia had fortified their family ties and deepened their dedication to being guardians of the environment. On their last day, the Johnsons paused to express their heartfelt gratitude to Juma and the lodge staff, acknowledging the unforgettable journey they had shared. They departed with a treasure trove of memories captured in a photo album, handcrafted Maasai bracelets, and, most significantly, a renewed determination to support conservation initiatives back home. As they drove away from Kwenia, the vast stretch of the savannah unfolded before them, a poignant symbol of the delicate splendour of our planet and the impact of conscientious tourism. Their expedition had transcended the boundaries of a mere vacation; it was a revelatory experience that sparked an enduring enthusiasm for conservation, reverence for cultural heritage, and a pledge to safeguard the natural marvels they had come to cherish.
The writer is a communications expert
otienoalfy@gmail.com
