Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before. ~Dalai Lama
In line with practicing what we preach, packed and fueled for our 2024 annual retreat here at Kendirita Tours, we headed to the serene shores of Lake Naivasha.
But first…KFC
We had earlier assembled at our Westlands office for our daily devotion, did half a day of work, and couldn’t leave without a little snack. For this trip, we opted for chicken and fries from KFC, which gave us the much-needed energy for the journey ahead.
Departure
As soon as the clock struck 1 pm on the last day of May that Friday afternoon, we left Nairobi City behind. The journey heading into Naivasha was as beautiful and relaxing as ever. We even made a stopover at the Rift Valley viewpoint to capture the magic of the valley below us, on the Nairobi Nakuru highway.
Approaching Naivasha town, we were soon greeted by the yellow-backed acacia trees synonymous with the town. Along the highway, monkeys, giraffes, and the picturesque zebras dotted the road, typical of a Kenyan safari. Our retreat was now in full swing.
Arrival
An hour after leaving the city we pulled into the Lake Naivasha Country Club managed by MGM Muthu Hotels, our hosts for the weekend.
The magic of our Kenyan hospitality was on display at this beautiful getaway by the lake. Smiling, helpful staff welcomed us, trays of chilled tropical juice in hand. They gave us a small briefing regarding our stay, we checked in and freshened up for the evening ahead.
Wildlife
What stood out immediately upon entering the resort was the wealth of wildlife that call this place home. Different species of birds chirped and flew from tree to tree. Vervet monkeys swayed from branch to branch, roof-top to roof-top with one even spotted stealing sugar sachets from the outdoor tea sets.
In one of our walks at dusk, we were very fortunate to spot the African sea/fish eagle, perched atop a tree, silent, watching, waiting for an opportunity to pounce on an unsuspecting prey below.
But the sighting we were all cautioned to look out for were the hippos. When the sun goes down at Lake Naivasha, the hippos leave the water and come on land to graze. These semi-aquatic mammals, native to sub-Saharan Africa weigh between 1300-1500kgs and can charge at a speed of 30kph.
For this reason, the guards at Muthu Hotel are trained and equipped by KWS to handle them. To move around the facility after dark, the guards would accompany us for extra safety.
Cuisine
Everything on the buffet was a decadent reflection of Kenyan and East African cuisine. A variety of bread and soups, potatoes sautéed in garlic, buttermilk chicken, pan-seared meats, and chapatis made as you watch.
After meals, we picked from an array of delectable desserts such as chocolate tarts, passion mousses, and a chocolate mud cake that looked too good to cut into.
Our activities
We had incredible fun activities during our stay:
- We played board games. The 50-50 Kenyan board game, in particular, was the team’s favorite. It tests for speed, communication, and teamwork while teaching interesting facts about our country.
- We exchanged gifts among ourselves, celebrating one another for the value we each bring to the team.
- We had heart-to-heart conversations about work and life in general.
- Later, we had individual moments of reflection, taking walks and pictures, and enjoying the serenity of Lake Naivasha.
Our Kendirita retreat came to a close on Madaraka Day 2024 with a word of prayer and thanksgiving. As we drove back into the Nairobi sunset, our hearts were filled with cherished memories and a renewed passion for service, tours, and travel. We absolutely loved every moment of it!
Writer: Winnie Wekesa