Out of Africa | Photo Diary pt 1

Kenya was unlike any other trip I have taken. First off its Africa! It was my first steps onto this alluring continent. Secondly, it was my first time traveling alone and also for the longest period of time, which ended up being 3.5 weeks. And lastly, I came on a volunteer assignment, which I booked through IVHQ (I’ll have a separate post on this). Although I had been lightly leafing through Lonely Planet’s Kenya and Pinterest-ing what Kenya had to offer prior to arriving, I still had very little expectations of what was in store for me.

After 21 hours of flying time and an 8 hour layover in Doha, Qatar I finally arrived in Nairobi. Nairobi is Kenya’s and East Africa’s largest city. Knowing this I expected the city center to be full of commercial with tons of shopping and an overall more developed infrastructure. What I found was a bustling hub with lots of traffic and skyscrapers that seemed to be somewhat recklessly thrown together into the wild. Their National Park is just 4 km away, so you can literally spot zebras and buffalos and have the Nairobi skyline in the foreground.  It’s definitely a city of contrasts. They say you have to be tough to live in New York City, but in Nairobi where it has acquired the nickname “Nairobbery” you quickly learn to keep your wits about you. I would constantly be warned with stories of muggings, pick-pocketing and getting ripped off. Luckily, yet annoying enough, I only dealt with the latter. As I’m painting this somewhat dim picture of Nairobi,  I assure you all its natural wonders are something to be reckoned with. To see these wild animals in their natural habitat is so magical and an experience all its own. Nothing like seeing beautiful beasts feasting and mating (yes I’m a witness!) Aside from the safaris, there is plenty to relish in its cultural sphere.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhXK-KT2JIg&w=560&h=315]

There is not much more I can say apart from how absolutely captivated I am! I hope this video offers more insight of the beauty of Kenya, and the incredible time I had there. Honestly, it was the first trip where I was in aguish to leave.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Baby elephants! Need I say more?

Giraffe Centre: Don’t pass up the chance to make out with a giraffe.

Karen Blixen’s House & Museum: Pay tribute to your inner Meryl Streep and have an Out of Africa moment.

Maasai Mara National Reserve: They said aside from your wedding day this safari would be the best day of your life. I can attest.

City Park aka Monkey Park: Monkey around with the locals of the park.

Eat at Carnivore. Such a satisfying experience.

Hell’s Gate National Park: Where else can you ride a bike through Lion King’s scenery.

Fisherman’s Camp:  So serene especially a boat ride across Hippo Lake.

Maasailand: Intriguing beautiful people, vivid colors and the most gorgeous jewelry I’ve seen. Don’t make my mistake, LOAD UP!

Hilton Arcade: If you hate bargaining, THIS is your shopping safe haven. Cheap prices and beautiful souvenirs.