A Day of Rest in Kenya
We realized on this October trip to Kenya that it will soon become an annual trip for us. Especially when our hearts and calling have pulled us to the children and families of the underprivileged settlements. This was a week full of fruitful meetings in collaborating with contacts from friends, and family. Churches, small businesses, and large corporations all wanted to help us make a difference in the lives of young children through education, soccer, and faith, while also learning how we can share and help them.
Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm
One of these contacts was from our friend, Campbell Black, originally from Australia, who now has a dual citizenship in the US. Craig Chapman, the owner of Ololo Lodge, and Campbell are old high school mates. After a little homework, I realized it would be wonderful if we could include not only Kendrick, our son and expedition photographer, but Dorothy, daughter of our mission partner, as well. She has been going to culinary school, and I knew an elegant lunch and the organic farm would make for a special day for her.
Our lunch was delightful, especially hearing the old stories of Craig & Campbell's school days playing rugby. And how he, his wife Joanne, and family purchased this old Kenyan homestead that they converted to a small lodge. Ololo Safari Lodge is situated on the beautiful banks of the Mbagathi River, which forms the southern border of the Nairobi National Park. You can actually drive through the park to get to the Ololo Safari Lodge. It’s a secluded location where civilization feels a thousand miles away and the views are spectacular.
There is a productive 20 acre Organic Regenerative Farm, with constant blue skies and sunshine. The vegetables alone were incredible - fresh herbs, fruit trees, all surrounded by soil studies, and a recycled water system. Dorothy was in heaven learning all there was to see and absorb. She will forever be inspired!
As a guest you can even help collect the eggs for your breakfast or milk the cow if you’d like, and learn all about their sustainable farming practices.
Now let’s share a small view of some the interiors of the Lodge so you don’t miss any of the local materials that were preserved and remain a part of the restoration.
The local artisans crafted new wood furniture pieces and refinished the old.
Historical photos from the Chapman family and lodge activities. Plus great books and board games for the guests to enjoy.
I so loved the intricacies of the thatched roof. Featured on the stone fireplace are handmade containers crafted from old gourds and wood that carried water, each one different in a very personal way.
We only spent the day there, yet we were so grateful for every moment. The beauty of the vast open land in view, wildlife living as they should, and the friendly staff with impeccable service all captivated us. But most importantly, the gift of friendship and family is what I will remember.
To learn more, be sure to check out their website, as I know it won’t be our last visit!
Much love & adventures,
Linda xo