The day began with a visit to Kakamega Forest, considered the eastern-most remnant of the lowland Congolean rainforest of Central Africa.
Our guide educated us on the types of trees and vines growing there some with medicinal properties. On our two hour walk, we were entertained by several different species of monkeys. Next we drove to Kakamega Country Club for lunch. The weather could not have been more lovely for dining outside while watching horn bills swoop from tree to tree.
In the late afternoon on our way back to Kisumu, we stopped at Kit Mikayi "the rock of the first wife," a very dramatic rock formation and site of spiritual significance for the local Luo-Kakello clan. An elderly clan member was our guide and explained why this rock is so special to his people. Lots of religious groups, such as the one we saw "Ladies of Maria" Catholic Church, come there to pray, fast, light candles and worship. There was another colorfully dressed group huddled on an outcropping singing. We did some rather precarious hiking with our leader but the view was wonderful.
When we got back down, a group of ladies gave us a lively farewell dance. We joined right in much to their delight. Getting back to the hotel, we freshened up, then walked to an Indian restaurant down the street from our hotel. I never have much trouble sleeping after our very full days!
- Jennifer Estes
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