Our recent school trip to Kenya was a valuable experience, offering new friendships and important insights. From navigating busy airports to meeting the children of Restart Africa, each moment was meaningful and engaging.
After a brief stopover at Kigali Airport in Rwanda, we landed in Kenya at noon local time (9 AM British time). We were warmly greeted by Wilson and Charles from Savage Wilderness Sagana before making a quick stop for lunch and then setting off northeast to Gilgil. The warm 29-degree temperature was a striking contrast to Oswestry’s chill!
Our first day in Gilgil was packed with activity. We shared communal meals, attended a lively church service, and joined in singing and dancing. There was an enthusiastic exchange of gifts and games, followed by an exciting visit to watch the local Restart team secure a 5-0 victory in a friendly match. As the day came to a close, a sense of anticipation and reflection settled over the group.
We began our second day with a breathtaking team photo at Lake Elmenteita, soaking in the early morning sunshine. We then visited the Restart Centre before heading into the heart of Gilgil to a community library in the slums. Our journey continued with a visit to the War Memorial Cemetery, providing a moment of reflection on the area’s history.
The Restart bus took us on some memorable ‘off-roading’ experiences throughout the day. The evening was spent bonding with the children—playing games, helping with homework, and strengthening our growing connections.
Our final full day with Restart Africa was an emotional one. Early risers in our group captured a stunning sunrise over Gilgil before hiking along an old railway line. Later, we visited St. Peter’s School, where many Restart children receive their education.
A delicious lunch, hosted by Mary Coulson, was followed by an afternoon of fun and games back at Restart. As the evening approached, the time for farewells arrived. Laughter, tears, dancing, and a game of tag marked the end of this special chapter. We all shared a common feeling: a deep appreciation for this experience and a desire for more time together.
After our heartfelt goodbyes at Restart Africa, our adventure continued with a 24-hour safari at Ol Pejeta. Under the watchful eye of our armed guard, Robert, we spent the night immersed in the African bush, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
The next morning, we set off on a sunrise game drive, encountering incredible wildlife, visiting a rhino graveyard, and meeting Baraka—a rhino blind in one eye. A symbolic stop at the equator marked the incredible journey we had undertaken, both physically and emotionally. But the adventure didn’t stop there! After the safari, we took on the thrilling challenges of mountain biking and whitewater rafting, pushing our limits and making unforgettable memories.
This trip was more than just travel; it provided opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and building connections. The friendships we made, the experiences we had, and the lessons we learned will stay with us. As we return home, Kenya remains a place woul dvery much like to visit again.
