A CULTURAL VISIT AT LOITA HILLS
On top of our bucket list this year were Oldoinyo Lengai and Loita Forest (Entim Enaimina Enkiyio). The Oldoinyo Lengai hike, was an incredibly dramatic adventure.
This forest holds
great significance in Maasai mythology and is known as Entim Enaimina Enkiyio
(The Forest of the Lost Child). It embodies a deep sense of conservation
morality and consciousness that has protected it from encroachment for
generations.
According to legend, a young girl was tending to her
father's calves at the edge of the forest. When some of the calves strayed into
the forest, she followed them, but the forest never returned her. Hence, it
earned its name, the Forest of the Lost Child.
Arrive at Morijo, Loita after a challenging 265km drive from Nairobi. The road is rough, especially after diverting from the Maasai Mara highway at Ewuaso Ngiro town.
The Maasai will host you and are seasoned mountain guides, they set up a
camp near their home at Miton, ensuring that our stay was filled with
unforgettable memories.
We set off in the morning into the forest – greeted by the
joyful call of the turacco, flapping their green and purple wings as they run
up branches in the canopy. The colobus monkey barked – invisibly. Fresh buffalo
dung and spoor led us deep into the forest.
We hoped and prayed to see the elephants, but they remained
phantoms in the shadows but left their dung for us to wonder.
The air is fresh and cool as we walk, trudging through the
undergrowth. Some trees in this area are enormous, very large, and as old as
200 years or more. Covering 302 square kilometers, the forest is one of the few
non-gazetted trust lands in Kenya that contains indigenous forests. It
stretches across the plains of Maasai Mara, with the west bordering the Great
Rift Valley and the southeast encompassing Lake Magadi and Ngurman Escarpment.
This place is fiercely protected by the local community and remains largely
undisturbed. It serves as a vital source of water, pasture, medicine, and pride
for the Loita Maasai. But this is a forest where the community must stand guard
every minute against encroachment – both from some community members who think
they can over exploit it or from outsiders who salivate at the possibility of
getting a piece of it for personal gain.
In
our conversation with members of the community, the word
“conservation” by NGOs is considered a dirty word and some international
organisations have been chased away from the forest for the community sees no
value in their conservation models.
We stayed 2 more days in the Loita area. The camp we stayed at was the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp, which is home to some of the most authentic, breathtaking Maasai experiences. Some of the activities that you could partake in were:
Embark on an unforgettable journey to meet and engage with
the Maasai tribe, where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in
their culture and way of life. Interact with the Maasai tribesmen and women on
a personal level, gaining a genuine understanding of their customs and
traditions. This is an authentic and intimate encounter that will leave you
with a deeper appreciation for the Maasai people.
Experience
the rigorous training of becoming a Maasai Warrior through personalized
guidance from authentic warrior guides. Discover the essence of what it truly
means to embody the spirit of a Maasai Warrior and delve into the rich
traditions and practices that define their way of life.
Walk In Nature
Embark on a remarkable journey alongside the Maasai
tribesmen as you traverse the breathtaking Loita Hills and immerse yourself in
the untouched beauty of Maji Moto's natural landscapes. Experience the
awe-inspiring presence of the Maasai people as they guide you through this
captivating terrain, sharing their ancestral wisdom and deep connection to the
land. This extraordinary adventure will leave an indelible mark on your soul,
as you walk tall in the footsteps of the Maasai tribesmen.
Embark on
an enriching journey of discovery as you delve into the fascinating world of
local wildlife, experience the nomadic lifestyle of the Maasai people through
invigorating treks, and unravel the significance of the plants deeply
intertwined with Maasai traditions. Immerse yourself in the intricate web of
knowledge that connects the Maasai tribe with their natural surroundings,
gaining a profound understanding of their harmonious relationship with the
environment. This captivating exploration will open your eyes to the wonders of
nature and the cultural heritage of the Maasai people, leaving you with a
newfound appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Hot-Spring Bathing
Indulge in
ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation as you luxuriate in the soothing embrace
of Maji Moto's renowned mineral-rich volcanic hot-spring. Allow the warm waters
to envelop your senses, melting away the stresses of everyday life and
revitalizing your body and spirit. Immerse yourself in this natural oasis,
where the healing properties of the hot spring will leave you feeling
invigorated and renewed. Surrender yourself to the tranquil ambiance of Maji
Moto and let the therapeutic powers of the hot-spring transport you to a state
of blissful serenity.
Immerse in Traditional Maasai Life
Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Maasai
culture as you witness the traditional Manyatta homes within a vibrant Maasai
women's village. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of their daily lives and
witness firsthand the remarkable craftsmanship that defines their culture.
Explore the vibrant tapestry of Maasai traditions, as you engage with the women
who breathe life into their ancestral crafts. This immersive experience will
unveil the rich tapestry of Maasai life, providing you with a deeper
understanding and appreciation for their unique heritage.
Maasai School Visit
Embark on a
meaningful journey to a Maasai primary school, where the youngest minds of the
community are nurtured, and their cultural heritage is reinforced. Witness the
transformative power of education as you engage with the students and witness
their eagerness to learn and grow. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere
of the school, where the Maasai traditions are celebrated and passed down
through generations. This enlightening experience will not only benefit the
community's youngest members but also provide you with a profound understanding
of the Maasai culture's resilience and commitment to their heritage.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting embrace of the evening
starlight, as you gather around the campfire with Maasai warriors to indulge in
the captivating tales and timeless songs of their ancient heritage. Let the
mesmerizing rhythm of their voices transport you to a world steeped in
tradition and wisdom. Under the twinkling night sky, listen to the stories that
have been passed down through generations, carrying the essence of Maasai
culture and history. Feel the warmth of the campfire as you become part of this
intimate gathering, forging connections with the warriors and gaining a deeper
appreciation for their rich oral traditions. This magical experience will leave
an indelible mark on your soul, forever intertwining your own story with the
captivating narratives of the Maasai people.
Learn vital Maasai bush skills.
Embark on a
transformative journey of learning as you delve into the essential Maasai bush
skills that have been passed down through generations. Immerse yourself in the
wisdom of the Maasai people as you master the art of fire making, discover the
diverse uses of herbs, and gain a profound understanding of coexisting
harmoniously with wildlife. Engage with experienced Maasai guides who will
impart their knowledge and expertise, providing you with invaluable insights
into the intricate web of survival in the wilderness. This immersive experience
will equip you with vital skills and a newfound appreciation for the delicate
balance between humans and nature, leaving you with a deep connection to the
Maasai culture and a profound respect for the natural world.
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