If you are yet to visit Olpejeta Conservancy or Ngare Ndare, you could be missing out on a whole mind blowing wildlife experience. And we’ll tell you all about it. Because that’s exactly what we did this last weekend.
My friends and I literally live for travel experiences. We’ve somehow managed to form this little “cult” of travel fanatics, and it’s been one hell of a ride. And Packwego Africa has remained to be the perfect host. 2022 has been quite the year, so when Packwego Africa organized yet another trip to Ngare Ndare and Olpejeta Conservancy (Nanyuki), it was just what everyone needed.
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On this night, I could barely sleep. I am definitely excited. I close my eyes.
My phone is vibrating heavily. And I realize, I made it to the next day. It is 6:30 am. I said a word of prayer, and off the bed I was. I opened my window curtains and I could feel that morning’s glory in my veins. It was going to be a beautiful day.
I step in the bathroom, and took a good cold shower. It’s just what I need to kick start this day on a high note. I checked my travel essentials, my camera and I stepped off my room. I’m documenting this travel experience as a videographer. I’m eager to document this travel experience.
My friends and I all reside in Nakuru. On this morning, the plan was to make it to Nanyuki and accomplish our day 1 activities. At the meeting point at exactly 8:00 a.m., everyone was on time. We were all super excited. We started our journey and in a span on 2 hours we made it to Nanyuki.
Our day 1 activities constituted activities in Ngare Ndare. We arrived at Ngare Ndare at 11:30 am. We were truly mind blown by the lush and indigenous forest.
At the gates, a Ranger briefed us about this indigenous forest and all the activities we’d undertake. We embarked on the hike, and it took us about an hour to reach the pools.
The whole sight of the nature-blue waterfall blew us away. It was mesmerizing. The ambience was just filled with life.
We were all ready to jump in these waters. The ranger made a stern warning that only experienced swimmers should make it to the deep end. He had some life jackets with him just in case anyone needed them.
In a few minutes, we were all in. The relaxing sound of the waterfalls took the entire experience to a whole new level. Most of us were not expert swimmers, hence we swam on the shallow part of the pool. However, that didn’t stop, one of our friends from reaching the deeper end. She swam across the pool like one of those Olympian swimmers. Talk about girl power.
We spent another one hour here, and then headed towards the Canopy Walkway. It took us about 30 minutes to get there.
Some of us were scared that the Canopy wasn’t strong enough, however, the Rangers assured us that it was in a good state. We started off slowly, trying to adapt, and as we reached the central area, we were all in awe about the breath-taking scenery. It was magical.
We proceeded and made it to the end of the bridge. And we considered that an achievement. At the end of the bridge was a nice wooden deck, giving an excellent view of the forest. We made it back to the other end of the bridge, the same way we came in but this time it was more comfortable.
It was about 5:00 pm and our day 1 was over.
We slept at Rafiki Guest House, just a few kilometers from Nanyuki town.
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Day 2
My phone is ringing. It’s Mr. Davis, the organizer of the trip. He wants to know how soon we can meet, as he’s outside the hotel. I tell him we are on our way.
As we step outside the hotel, the vans were ready for us. And off we went.
We made it to Olpejeta Conservancy, 15 minutes shy of 10:00 am. It was quite sunny. While at the gate, we thought of taking some pictures.
We then headed to the entry area. The agents there would tell us what Olpejeta Conservancy is all about and what we should expect in the Conservancy. On the walls, were all kinds of information about the wildlife in Olpejeta.
Olpejeta essentially works with partners and stakeholders to conserve biodiversity and support economic and social development through innovative nature-based solutions that benefit people, wildlife and the climate.
We then got in the vans, and drove off while enjoying the beautiful sceneries.
Just a few minutes in, we spot the antelopes. They were busy grazing and it was just an epic view. Of course we take some pictures and continued with the drive.
As we drove, we eventually bumped into buffalos and running zebras. It was quite phenomenal being that we were up close to them, and somehow it felt unreal.
As we drove on the dusty roads, we spotted the elephants. Some were on the trenches, while others were among the trees feeding.
Driving off swiftly we made it to a special spot, joining other tourists. This special spot was where all the rhinos that had died in the conservancy were buried. Each grave was engraved with the names of the rhinos and how they died. Batian, Sudan, Carol and Ishirini were some of the rhinos that had passed on.
It was easy to tell that the conservancy values and cares its animals. We took time to visit the grave of each animal, as a sign of respect.
Eventually, we drove off, and saw more elephants and rhinos from afar. At a certain point was a bridge that clearly indicated that it could only hold a maximum of 11 tons and that elephants were requested to cross over, two at a time only. Apparently the elephants in this orphanage can read instructions, haha!!
We finally arrived at Morani Information Center.
From the other side, was a sick rhino, laying down, helpless and tired. The guide was keen to explain that its condition was as a result of flies’ eggs on top of its skin, resulting to itchiness and hence deep injuries.
Inside the Morani Information center, was a display of various bones, horns, leopard skins, backbones, husks, skulls and dungs of different animals. We had a small session with the guides here, who explained in detail about the display. I’d say the session was quite insightful.
A few walks in the wilderness we spotted a female lion on the other side of a dam. She just lied there all relaxed and peaceful. However, seeing it there definitely felt surreal for most of us.
We moved a bit further and made it to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Inside, was a big river, and it definitely explained the leafy surroundings. We dived deeper into the sanctuary being led by the lead guide. And finally we saw the playful chimpanzees over a long electrocuted fence.
Inside the Information Center we learned a lot about chimpanzees, including the fact that they’re 98.6% human. Essentially, they are considered to be our relatives.
Our next stop was the Equator spot. We took a good photo of the entire team. Joy was in the air. Indeed, the trip was worth it. As we headed back, it occurred to me that traveling brings meaning to life. Hence, taking a little time to travel will enrich your soul. Mr. Davis definitely did a great job in delivering the ultimate experience for all participants.
We look forward to the next trip from Packwego Africa. Because guess what, to travel is to live.
