Ermo’s 140 character description of his ideal holiday in Kenya was voted best by the WAYN community, winning him and his wife, Viire, a 12 day tour to sample some of Kenya’s most beautiful spots. Their trip will start at the Tribe Hotel in Nairobi, moving to star gazing in the Rift Valley, a romantic balloon ride over the Maasai Mara, and golf and scuba diving in Diani Beach.

The promotion was run in collaboration with the Heritage Hotel, Governor’s Camp, Diving the Crab and Leisure Lodge Golf Club.

Before his arrival, we caught up with Ermo to ask him about his expectations for his dream Kenyan holiday:

1.    What was your first reaction when you found out you had won the Journey of a Lifetime competition?

Actually did not know whether to believe it or not, I was careful at first and answered in my local language – but when they replied then I believed that it was true that I won the competition!

2.   How did your family react?

It was unbelievable. I thought it would be a nice surprise for my wife! Thanks to you I am happy to share the experience with her. She has just had baby number two – the other one, who is 2 years old, is screaming behind the door.

3.    What do you think will make your students the most jealous about your trip?

Well, I haven’t really told many people about it, but we think that Kenya is very exotic, and this is a wonderful opportunity for us.

4.    How often do you travel out on holiday?

We try to go as often as we can. We were in Indonesia – Bali islands and Turkey as well. But in Africa, we have only been to Egypt so far.

5.    When you think Kenya, you think……?

Sunny, Africa, Animal Reserves, Beautiful nature

6.    What are you looking forward to the most?

Nice attractions –my wife is looking forward to the diving.

But we are a bit afraid to behave like normal tourists and we would like to know more about the people, the culture, the music, get in touch with things that a unique, culture and heritage of the country – not just to stay in hotels. We are also hoping we will get the chance to know the people a bit more, and explore the country.

7.    Wildlife, Food, Cultural experience?

Cultural – but all together – and of course to see the beautiful nature that is very well represented on television.

8.  Carnivore or Vegetarian?  If Carnivore, Have you ever eaten any Game meat?

No hesitations on that end.  We love meat!

9.  As you know, Kenya is a country set to give you an exciting culinary adventure, with that in mind, what would you go for?  Mutura ( a much loved delicacy that is made of goat intestines stuffed with bits of meat and spiced to release a mouthwatering flavor or  kumbe kumbe ( grilled flying ants):

Intestines – although both are interesting – I’m more of a meat eater.

10.  City guy or outdoors guy?

Both – but if you ask me I am more of a nature person – I am more comfortable in nature, but then again, there are lions and the like, I will have to see how comfortable I am then.

11.  Champaign breakfast at dawn or beach party all night?

Well, I would say that the romantic dinner and the beach party tops my list.  We really want to make the most of it, get to do something different. It will be our lifetime adventure!

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and WAYN to keep posted on Ermo’s journey through Kenya with videos and pictures!

For some, the view is reason enough, for others it’s a personal challenge and for most it’s too much fun to let pass by. Picture fingers clawed into the rock face against the howling winds on ice climbs of the 5199 meter high peak of Mount Kenya. This is the extreme sport of Rock climbing on Mt. Kenya!

An Exciting Climb

Adrenalin has a special way of making the most daunting of tasks just that much easier. Where better to get your fix than the rugged peaks of East Africa? The challenge these peaks present to hikers and mountaineers is not for the faint at heart. Perhaps this technical climb is a task too grueling, fear not.

Mountain Climbing Club of Kenya

kilometers south of Nairobi along Mombasa road is Lukenya hill, property of the Mountain Climbing Club of Kenya since 1960. Once a year, the club organizes training camps for beginners to get the skills needed to tackle exigent climbs. The training provides novice climbers with an excellent platform to hone their skills.

Lukenya’s Challenge

Lukenya rock climbing near Athi River also imparts mountaineers with valuable camping tips and techniques, essential to enjoying your ascent of the east Africa’s highest peaks. Nowhere else can you gain the spiritual, mental and physical preparation for a climbing expedition? With the guidance of seasoned professionals you’re sure to make a successful climb.

A Beautiful Scenery

Now you’re prepped packed and ready to tackle the adventure. Enjoy the amazing dense forests, endemic wildlife, plains, springs and lakes.

The Challenging Batian

Among mount kenya peaks is Batian.  Batian summit is 5199 meters and a difficulty ranking D. The grade IV, 5.9 technical climb traverses rock and ice of the famous ‘Diamond Couloir’. Approachable by the south-east facing route and the North face route. This is the African continent’s second highest peak and being right on the equator routes are often determined by the sun’s position.

An Exhilarating Climb

The technical climb begins from Mackinder’s base on route directly to Nelion peak. Ascension to the summit is a true test, even for expert climbers. The southern ice route is best climbed when the sun is in the North between the months of July and September. Alternatively the north eastern rock climbing during this period also has favorable conditions.

Suggested Itinerary

The recommended routes for technical climbing on Mount Kenya during the months are:
• Standard IV:
south West Ridge, December to March.
• Standard V (Rock routes)
North Face Standard route, July-September/October.

• Standard IV (Rock Route)
North Face Sirimon Approach
South-East Face Route, August-December.
• Standard IV (Ice Window)
• Standard V (ice routes) Mid July to end of September through the ‘Diamond Couloir’

Lenana Peak

For climbers not quite ready to embark on these technical climbs, the main summit of mount Kenyas Lenana peak at 4,985 meters is a good trial. All the way you can have the support of experienced porters and guides with invaluable knowledge of the terrain and it’s wild. Plan your expedition through Journey Kenya and choose from several great places to stay including; Mount Kenya Country Club, Mountain Lodge, Sweet Waters, Ol Pejata. Be sure also to sample the Mount Kenya Art galleries. Shoot amazing pictures of Kenya.

As one of the most diverse disciplines, art seems to be spilling over into everything we do. The need to express oneself is universal, its realization priceless.

Kenya’s Tantalising Art

From the lake basin to the coast, in the carpeted gallery lobbies to the shanty community centers; art knows no bounds. Kenyan art has grown leaps and bounds and here are some of its finest representatives.

Amazing Artists

Kenyan artists are taking ground.

Unique Art

Unlimited by medium, what is conventionally known as fine art is not always typified. From recyclables, to scrap and waste referred to as ‘mixed media’ to the intricate bead work fashioned by so many tribes.

Refreshingly Unique Designs

The variety of styles are characteristic of traditional African art in that the works tell a story through in depth looks at societal, political and artistic matters. From rock art in early man’s cavernous dwellings, adornment and decor have long been artists’ focus. Traditionally art in East Africa has been centred on the aesthetics of everyday objects like jewelry, textiles, baskets, furniture and musical instruments.

Art Havens

The first artistic locales were opened shortly after Kenya gained independence.

Paa-ya-Paa Art Center and Gallery Watatu

In 1965 Paa-ya-Paa Art center was opened followed by Gallery Watatu four years after.

African Heritage Pan African Gallery

1972 saw the doors of the African Heritage Pan African Gallery opened to the public.

A Bubbling Interest

It is on the foundation of these three that Kenyan art has grown to open more art schools and workshops. This has given seed to several commercial galleries and sprouted into a sensational art scene.

Contemporary Art

Contemporary art and its ethnic counterpart color Kenyan expression a special hue. The master sculptures, masks and figurines put this art in expressly motion. Body, rock and glass have become mediums for Kenyan expression.

Today, modern art exhibited in local galleries draws appreciation and criticism from beyond Kenyan borders. Ethnographic art unique to this region has not been lost either; enthusiasts can sample and own a number of authentic old African pieces. Art acquisition clubs have made African art more available and lucrative for both the collectors and artisans. Several art groups are community based and impact positively on the livelihoods of artisans and townsfolk.

The Kenya National Museum

At the National Museum the independent Kuona Trust was rooted to support local artists and exhibit their works.

Some of Kenya’s’ finest can be seen at the following private galleries:

•  Gallery of Contemporary East African Art, Nairobi Musesm on Museum Hill
• The Rahimtulla Museum of Modern Art (RaMoMA), Rahimtulla towers Upper hill
• Gallery Watatu, Lonrho House on Standard Street 1st floor
• Paa-ya-Paa Art Center, Ridgeways road off Kiambu road.
• Kitengela Glass Studios, Magadi road along the Maasai Lodge road
• Banana Hill Art Studio in Banana
•  Mount Kenya Art Gallery
• Kisumu National Museums’ Lake basin Art group

Exhibiting 120 paintings from the 6-30 April 2010 from 08:00 to 17:00 local time

Whether you prefer it passed with honors or as a divine promise, Kenya is shaping her own artistic destiny, sample the talent that is Fine African art on your journey in Kenya.

English Royal Family Connection

Over two generations, Kenya has held a special place for the English royal family. The royal connection has span almost 50 years, with an ascension and a renewed relationship with the exciting news of the royal engagement in Kenya.

Mt Kenya Attraction

Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in October 2010 on the breathtaking slopes of Mt Kenya.  His grandmother, Queen Elizabeth in 1952 arrived at the Treetops hotel in Nyeri as a Princess and left as the Queen of England. The driving distance from Nyeri to Nanyuki, the location of Mt Kenya, is approximately 60kms and only an hours drive.

Prince William’s Ideal Love Nest

Prince William flew his Princess Kate to the picturesque location more than two thirds up Africa’s second highest mountain which majestically stands snow-capped at 17,058 feet above sea level. One can only imagine the snow glistening like diamonds and the glacier lakes reflecting the sky – perhaps in keeping with the sapphire and diamond engagement ring that Wills gave Kate. A perfectly selected setting to declare his love to his Princess.

Kenya’s Romantic Nature

Kenya has once again been confirmed as the perfect location for love. Prince William’s choice to propose in Kenya gives us an insight of the depth of his love for Kenya and its enchanting beauty.

Savour the Delights!

So if Kenya is fit for a Prince and his Princess, perhaps you may want to explore the magic that Kenya holds. Whether you choose to propose or to say your vows under the African skies, or on the beach under the whispering coconut palms, Kenya is the perfect destination for your romantic special day. It is guaranteed to make your dream wedding come true!

Say I do in Kenya

Your wedding can be as elaborate or as simple as you want. If you fancy the romantic idea of a wedding or honeymoon in Kenya with an idyllic beach as the backdrop and the sounds of the Indian Ocean lapping against the shore or in the bush, in tented wilderness camps, riverbanks, in remote safari lodges, Journey Kenya will allow you to go wherever your imagination may take you.

Feel Kenya’s Enchanting Splendour

The contrasts of the landscape and the outstanding natural beauty of Kenya must be seen to be believed. From long stretches of white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters protected by the coral reef to the National Parks with spectacular game viewing opportunities. Game viewing on the way to and from the altar has to beat the normal pre- wedding stress!

Accommodates All

Kenya is the ultimate romantic escape, there is a certain mystery around the country that draws couples and honeymooners to celebrate their love. If you’re looking for romance, seclusion, luxury and wonder, Kenya is Africa’s forte.

A Sizzling Start With a Romantic Honeymoon

If you thought your wedding day was a day to remember, then your honeymoon in Kenya will surely be in your mind for the rest of your lives. From indulging spas to luxurious game lodges, what better way to kick of the first part of the happiest time of your life!

Honeymoon Packages

The ‘classic’ African honeymoon is probably a luxurious safari followed by a romantic beach break. Options here are numerous and include Mombasa and its north and south coastal areas, the islands of Lamu and Manda off the Kenyan coast. Enjoy the stupendous location, marvelously theatrical décor, great food and service, and unexpectedly good spa treatments.

It’s All Yours!

So what are you waiting for – come to Kenya to fall in love, rekindle love, celebrate love! You might even find it in Prince William’s treasured place – Lewa.

Of crucial importance this year, and for decades to come, is the conservation of some of Kenya’s most endangered species. The priceless wildlife species include:

• The hunter’s hartebeest
• Macow’s Shrew
• Cosens’s Gerbil
• Red Colobus
• The African elephant
• African wild dog
• Reticulated Giraffe
• Cheetah
• Lion

The hunter’s hartebeest

Morphology

The hunter’s hartebeest (Beatragus hunter) more commonly known as the Hirola stands at 3-4 feet at the shoulder and a step closer to extinction everyday.

Ecology

This endemic species is especially dependent on the arid plains of Kenya’s northern range and coastal forests that border into Somalia. This antelope occurs east of the Tana river and is among a growing number of species that are running headlong towards ruin.

Interesting Features

This beautiful ‘four eyed’ antelope sports lyrate horns with curious black and white accents over a tan hide.

Biological Extraction

These social herbivores are thought to belong to a similar lineage with the topi and sassaby species of the damaliscus genus.

An endangered Lot

Sadly, fewer than 600 individuals remain in the wild as a result of climatic change, predation and encroachment by man into competition with the hartebeest.

The Black Rhinoceros, Cosens’s Gerbil, Red Colobus, and , Macow’s Shrew

The Black Rhinoceros, Cosens’s Gerbil, Macow’s Shrew and the Red Colobus are among 21 endangered species.

The African elephant, African wild dog, Reticulated Giraffe, Cheetah, and the Lion

The mighty African elephant, African wild dogs, Reticulated Giraffe, Cheetah and even the king of jungle are now listed among 31 vulnerable species.

Response

Upon realizing that the problem was in man’s interaction with the ecosystems all life depends on, a community based approach has been adopted to drive conservation efforts. Where many local communities often hunt, poison and drive off wildlife that competes with their livestock is exactly where the solution lies.

Key Mitigation Organisations

They include:

• Northern Range-lands Trust
• The Ishaqbini community conservancy

Northern Range-lands Trust

Leading the way is the Northern Range-lands Trust which educates and trains communities on the importance of conserving biodiversity and natural resources to improve their own livelihoods in a sustainable manner. Currently, the trust covers over 6000 square Kilometers through 17 community run conservancies. This operation is fashioned in a way that would allow migration of wild animals in their natural range without unnecessary human interruption.

The Ishaqbini community conservancy

An answer to the Hirolas’ call has taken form through the Ishaqbini community conservancy in Kenya’s north eastern Ijara district. A trained team scouts the conservancy to ensure security and monitor the wildlife to standardize data on the sightings, numbers as well as human/wildlife conflicts. This work has greatly reduced the numbers of animals lost to poachers.

More Intervention Efforts Needed

Still a lot is left to be done and more awareness to communities for their invaluable cooperation must be furthered for sure sustainability of the conservation agenda. No value can be placed on any one species. Lamentably, we realise all too late a species’ importance in the cycle of life. Remember, prevention is better than cure. So, next time, look to support the conservation efforts wherever you may Journey!

Kenya’s Royalty Favour

Kenya has long been a favourite holiday destination for the British Royal Family. This was the setting for the royal engagement.

Prince William and Kate Middleton Pacesetters

A reader of youandyourwedding.com will have the opportunity to Say I Do, with royal flair in one of Kenya’s best kept secrets on the slopes of the magnificent Mt. Kenya, courtesy of Journey Kenya and Serena Hotels. It is within the Mt. Kenya region where England’s Prince William and his heartthrob Kate Middleton decided to declare their love for each other with their engagement.

Queen Elizabeth’s Landmark Destination

Mt. Kenya is famous for its connection to the England’s royal family. It is in this very same location that Queen Elizabeth arrived as a princess, and departed as the Queen of England.

Ol Pejeta House Royalty Charm

Originally the home of Lord Tom Delamere, Ol Pejeta House is a beautiful private house set within the pristine calm of the Sweetwaters Sanctuary. Ol Pejeta House is found within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy – a 90,000-acre private wildlife conservancy –situated on the foot hills of the Aberdares, a famous Royal holiday spot, and the magnificent snow-capped Mount Kenya.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Allure

Boasting a variety of animals, including the “Big Five” of lions, buffaloes, elephants, leopards and rhinos the conservancy is also known for the country’s chimpanzee sanctuary.

Ol Pejeta Panoramic Paradise

The Ol Pejeta farmhouse provides breathtaking open views in a serene location.

The Sizzling Itinerary

After enjoying time away with nature in the bush, the lucky couple will be whisked away to Kenya’s sprawling white sandy beaches. With the shimmering sands and waters of the Indian Ocean stretching before it, amidst verdant and shaded by gently swaying palm trees, the Mombasa Serena Beach Hotel represents the ultimate escape.

Mombasa Serena Beach Hotel Treats

Created and inspired by legendary the 13th Century Swahili town of Lamu, the Serena Beach Hotel and Spa offers a luxurious romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect location for your honeymoon. With his and hers massages at the infamous Maisha Spa, fruit baskets, romantic dinners, and more, you will be waited on, hand and foot with service fit for royalty!

The Jackpot

The competition runs until 31st January 2011 at http://www.youandyourwedding.co.uk/sweepstakes/15948

Journey Kenya’s Promise

This new year leave nothing to chance; seems hard to imagine with so much happening. However, Journey Kenya has made a point of highlighting Kenya’s finest to be sure that you miss out on none of the following top events of 2011.

January

Start out on the right key with a musical commune by Paragasha on the 25th in the capital’s Hamilton house on Kaunda street. A blend of neo-soul, Jazz, Reggae and much more will be served from 19:30 to 22:00 until late October. The on going Kibobo Art club will continue running at the Nairobi Art center where children aged 7-12 years can express themselves in various media every Saturday from 10:00 to 13:00.
For the business savvy traveller make a date to partake in the Landmark forum, for 13,000 KSH discover more about finance and lifestyles in Kenya from 09:30 to 17:30 from the 26th.

February

In Diani get your feet wet as Whale Shark diving season makes a splash on the Kenyan coast. In similar fashion make waves of your own at the Prosurf Kite surfing tourney at Nyali beach with the best in the sport. This month of love draws inspiration from culture with a necessary dose of indigenous arts, where better than the Kijani Festival, Kenya’s own celebration of local and international performances.

March

Curious minds must meet at the Westgate mall for a TED inspired gathering that explores big ideas that challenge our world view on every but the last Saturday of the month from 10:00 to 12:00.
Wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts must indulge their palettes in a tasting at the Holiday in. In rift immerse yourself in a beautiful celebration of local and international on the shores of Lake Naivasha at the Fisherman’s camp. Later on tee of at the Kenya Open championship in a local instalment of the PGA European tour.

April

Buckle up for the world’s toughest motorsport race at the FIA’s Safari rally.

May

Keep up with the leaders in the Rhino charge off-road competition in a race to conserve endangered animals and their habitats in cycling and 4×4 challenges. Still in the conservation spirit, make a date in Lamu to take part in the Dugong festival.

June

Put on your jogging shorts and hydrate for the Lewa Marathon inside the wildlife conservancy. Go back in time at the Lamu Maulidi Festival, to participate in Muslim celebrations that culminate in a centuries old donkey race. June is also the month for trade and fashion extravagance at the Kenya fashion week and International trade exhibitions. Sports fans can scrum down in the premier sevens rugby tournament with hard hitting rugby action at the Safaricom Sevens.

July

Lend an ear to the Sigana international storytelling festival in Nairobi…
That’s not all find Part 2 of our events calendar to see what else is in store this year on your Journey in Kenya!

A Rich History

Jockeys have galloped round Kenyan racecourses since the early 1900’s. The first race was held in Machakos then moved to Kariokor east of the city center. The Jockey Club of Kenya (thoroughbred racings’ principal body) then made a final move to the Ngong Racecourse in 1954, the nations’ exclusive race track.
7-9 races are held on most Sundays, beginning at 13:05.

A Colonial Slant

The trade was imported into Kenya by her colonial order and ever since the Jockey Club of Kenya (JCK) has kept record of all thoroughbreds in their Stud book. The lineage of all racehorses can be dated back over 100 years.

Ngong Racecourse’s Exciting Itinerary

Picture beautiful weather, glistening thoroughbred horses and a fantastic atmosphere. Anxious chatter fills the air before the start. Final calls are announced while spectators jostle for a view. The gates give away and they’re off, the chatter crescendos into cheers as they tear round the track. Before you know it, the winners dismount as others turn in or tear up their slips.

A Classy Establishment

The venue is Ngong racecourse, beside the Ngong road forest on Ngong road. Raison d’être, the allure of African class. Once the gates open it’s a sure bet the days’ a good one, great food, big money and superb entertainment. Visit Kenya with Ngong Racecourse as a preferred destination.

Kenya Derby

The biggest event on the racing calendar is the Kenya Derby. The first derby was held in 1914. Today, the top prize is in excess of Ksh 700,000. Long held as preserve of the bourgeois, the stands, booths and track side seating show little evidence of this. The races are more than just a gamblers thrill; they are a meeting of Nairobi’s best Jockeys and a fun day for the entire family.

A More than 2-Kilometre Track

The right hand turf track in Ngong is approx. 2,400m with a seventy meter straight and two chutes measuring 1,800 and 2,060 meters each.

A  Classic Golf Course

The Ngong Racecourse features a 9-hole golf course, with a total par of 35, including putting green and driving range.

Ostrich and Auto Rallies

The Ngong Racecourse venue has also hosted Ostrich races and a special stage for the Safari rally.

Culinary Delights

For the meat-lover, the Ngong Racecourse hosts Steve’s Steak house. Steve’s is all about beef, Aberdeen Angus in particular. This specialty restaurant prides itself in the quality and ambiance of this dining experience.

Noble Causes

The local racing community directly impacts over 2000 people, all who benefit from the betting proceeds.

Betting

Betting is classed in both pool betting and fixed odds through book makers. All bookies are licensed by the Betting and licensing board of Kenya to secure and reward fixed offs bets. South African Phumelela Gaming and Leisure and JCK facilitate the betting on the races as well the same in other sports around the clock. The JCK now offers all players the chance to bet on international betting racing from their premises by totalisator (tote). The minimum tote bet is $1.

Come on! Journey Kenya at the impressive Ngong Racecourse!

Mud caked guards and laden soles with spirits charged for a super cause. This is the annual Kenya rhino charge. Conservation has never been this high-octane. Once a year, the meanest drivers in even meaner machines compete in a brutal off-road challenge. In this motorsport distance favors speed as teams navigate otherwise impassable terrain. By start of April, much has gone into preparing crews and their vehicles for the rhino charge in June each year!

The Rhino Charge History

Since 1989, participants have put their vehicles to the test against the unforgiving bush. Whole axles have been divided by the continent’s toughest off-road motorsport event. Rhino charging has touched many lives in different ways .

An Interesting Genesis

It was a fine Sunday morning when Rob Coombes and Brian Haworth embarked upon an

expedition of Mt. Suswas’s southern slopes. An event that saw the two do more carrying than riding their motorbikes over hills and through dredges. This inspired the organizers to run the charge through luggas and over hills. 31 competitors participated in 1989, every hill top would be a control and vehicle odometers standardized the competition; the rest as they say is history.

Tough Rules

The goal is to pass 10 checkpoints by the shortest route under 10 hours. Teams are penalized for speeding and damaging the environment. Actually, the environment tends to do more damage on the vehicles. Each team that enters must raise a minimum Kshs 40,000. This event has been more than serious fun.

Variety Galore

Running for the same cause is the Hog Charge; a two wheel version of the rhino charge for the young at heart. Cyclists maneuver their bikes through Sukari ranch range in a special tour of African wilderness. Four-person teams can participate having raised Ksh 16,000. So now you have different options to charge for the Rhinos – man or machine.

A Noble Cause

Funds raised are geared towards conservation of the Aberdare forest mountain range. In partnership with KWS, KFS and Rhino Ark participants charged the complete fence with 7000 volts.

Going Places

An initiative that began in 1989 has seen a steady growth in rhino populations as well as nominal human-wildlife conflict. August 2009 saw the Rhino charge flagged off in North Wales, proceeds of which returned to its East African birth place.

Did you Know?
The Aberdares mountain range acts not only as one of five water towers in Kenya but also as home to 778 plant species?

The Majestic Aberdares National Park

The Aberdares national park is the largest natural ecosystem in Kenya. It is located in central province. The park enjoys bountiful rainfall owing to the nearby Mount Kenya.

Home to Various Endangered Animal Species

The Jackson Mongoose is among the threatened species endemic to Kenya’s mountain forests.

A Mammal Haven

Larger mammals in these highland forests are the likes of:

• The African Hunting dog
• The bush Elephant
• The Bongo
• The Eland
• The cape Buffalo

Black Rhino Sanctuary

The Black Rhino sanctuary inside the Aberdare forest is refuge to Kenya’s only indigenous species of rhinoceros.

The Rhino Ark Trust

The rhino Ark trust was founded by Ken Kuhle in 1988. Kuhle sought to begin a wildlife sanctuary to protect the Aberdare ranges and its wildlife.

Don’t Wait
Attend this year’s rhino charge event. Spectate or better still participate in this one of a kind endurance challenge for the Aberdares. While rhino charging, stay at the Ark or Treetops game lodges for a personal encounter with the highland wilderness on your journey in Kenya. Controlled access to the forest for fuel and economic profit must be well regulated to ensure the numbers of Aberdares’ flora and fauna continue to flourish.

Fashion in Kenya has become as vital to its economy and to its people’s individual style as its tourist destinations. Fashion shows are organized regularly for fashionistas, both local and international, to interact, display their work and share ideas.

Sparkling Success Stories

Success stories in the fashion industry in Kenya include fashion entities like:

• Kiko Romeo
• Voshali Mojaria
• Winnie Ojanga who is based in Switzerland

Creative, Original Stylists

Most of these designers have a lot in common – the aspect of uniqueness, diversity and the employment of fabrics that are originally Kenyan. The advantage in this is that runways are always filled with large flowery prints and splashes of bright colors very well intertwined.

Fabulous Fashion Items

Among Kenya’s fabulous fabrics are items such as:

• The leso
• The kasuku kikoy
• The kitenge
• Jewellery

Lesos

The lesos are more often than not combinations of two colors in different designs and patterns. They usually carry messages or sayings on their edges, these by Kenya’s wisest from time immemorial. Today, lesos are being converted into beach pants, shorts and tops. They also make some of the most beautiful pieces of African wear that can be worn to theater productions and to wild cat dance exhibitions at the Safari Park Hotel and Casino, for instance.

Kasuku Kikoy

The kasuku kikoy is an absolute spectacle at the beach for anyone who wants to stand out just by being simple. The fashion items come in all colours. All you have to do is pick yours and then make your way to Kenya’ coast and show off, at the Almanara Diani Beach Resort, the Leisure Lodge Beach and Golf Resort or any other destination of your choice.

Kitenge

The kitenge has been around for the longest time. It is however being currently embraced more now than it has ever been before! Most of the designs of the kitenge are skirts and blouses accompanied by matching head gears, a lot like the Nigerian tradition of the wrapper and the voluminous head gear. These can be worn to wedding fairs, to private parties about town and on many other occasions according to choice.

Jewellery

An ensamble of the leso, the kasuku kikoy and the kitenge would just be incomplete without the appropriate African jewelery. A number of shops in Nairobi’s Central Business District and surrounding areas stock the clothing and the jewelry together. Examples are:

• The Mall in Westlands,
• The village Market
• The Maasai Market, Nairobi’s Mobile Market

Kenya is rising with the rest of the world when it comes to fashion, and its three major fabulous fabrics have a lot to do with it. They are for everyone . Moreover,  the fashion items can be tailored to suit any occasion and any kind of safari to Kenya and to many other parts of the world. Wondering how to stand out in this multi cultured part of the world? Visit your favorite outlet in Nairobi and have a look!