Arrival and Acclimatization

The moment I stepped off the plane in Nairobi, I felt the pulse of Kenya’s vibrant energy. The air was crisp, and the anticipation of the adventure ahead was palpable. Our journey began with a transfer to Lake Elementaita, a serene soda lake nestled in the Great Rift Valley. The lodge where we stayed offered a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm, allowing us to unwind and acclimatize to the Kenyan altitude.

The next morning, we embarked on a gentle recovery run along the shores of Lake Elementaita. The landscape was breathtaking, with flamingos dotting the lake’s surface and zebras grazing nearby. It was a reminder of why I fell in love with Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Later, we visited the Kariandusi Prehistoric Site, a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient history. The site, with its stone tools and archaeological significance, added a layer of depth to our journey, connecting us to the land’s rich past.

Immersed in Nature and Culture

Our adventure continued with a visit to Nakuru National Park, renowned for its vibrant flamingo population and diverse wildlife. As a wildlife photographer, capturing the sight of thousands of flamingos in flight was a dream come true. The park also offered sightings of Rothschild’s giraffes, rhinos, and even the elusive leopard. Each encounter was a testament to the importance of conservation efforts in preserving these magnificent creatures.

From Nakuru, we journeyed to Lake Baringo, where we spent a night on Ol Kokwe Island. The island’s geothermal springs and the opportunity to catch and cook tilapia with local fishermen provided a unique cultural experience. Sleeping under the stars in tents, surrounded by the sounds of nature, was both humbling and exhilarating. It was a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of sustainable travel practices.

The Heart of Running in Iten

The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly our time in Iten, the “Home of Champions.” Known for producing some of the world’s best long-distance runners, Iten offered a unique opportunity to train alongside elite athletes. The high-altitude training center was a hub of activity, with runners from around the globe seeking to improve their performance.

The training sessions were intense, with a mix of easy jogs, speed work, and the famous Kenyan fartleks. The camaraderie among runners was inspiring, and the local community’s hospitality was heartwarming. Iten’s red clay roads and lush landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for our runs, and the experience was a testament to the power of sport to unite people from diverse backgrounds.

Our journey concluded with a trek to the foothills of Mount Kenya, where we applied our newfound endurance to a challenging climb. The views from Old Moses Camp were nothing short of spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment was profound. As we descended, I reflected on the incredible journey we had undertaken, grateful for the opportunity to explore Kenya’s stunning wildlife and countryside in such a unique and sustainable way.