This morning we had a delicious breakfast of crepes/pancakes, eggs and homemade juices. Kristen told us about her early morning, before breakfast, spent petting the five dogs (Bobby, Lassie, Wolfie, Mbati, and Snappy). It was very yummy and a nice change from the breakfast we’d been having every other day at Rondo. Everyone geared up, some more than others (Kieran with his Safari vest and Kenyan belt), for out boat expedition around Lake Naivasha to Crescent Island.
We all got into two small blue boats (all wearing neon orange life jackets of course) and our skilled, if quiet, drivers navigated us away from the dock. The trip started off with lots of bird watching until finally we came across a mound of sleeping hippos. The hippos seemed very content and we watched them as they slowly noticed us for about ten minutes. We then continued on around the lake and spotted numerous birds, including fish eagles, and many Water Bucks grazing on the shore.
After about half an hour we docked on Crescent Island and were greeted by our guide, Josphat. He led us up to the ridge and told us that Crescent Island was the rim of a very inactive volcano. We immediately spotted some giraffes and everyone trotted over to see our very first animal. We were able to get very close the giraffes and took lots of pictures. Our guide informed us that they were Maasai giraffes (there are three different kinds). We then continued on to see wildebeests, zebras, Thompsons gazelles, impalas, water buffalos, and more water bucks.
We walked around taking many selfies with all the animals (at a safe distance, don’t worry!!!). Kieran and Monica took a selfie with Moses too, and then after about an hour and a half walked back to the boats. Our boat drivers brought us to where another Fish Eagle was perched in a tree and threw a dead fishy fishy into the water. The eagle was initially very hesitant but then swooped right into the water to retrieve the tilapia, which we too ate last night for dinner. We finally docked after seeing a few more hippos on the way back and all boarded vans to head back to Dea’s.
We were presently surprised with our lunch, which included grilled chicken, fries, veggies, and ice cream. Monica took a siesta while Haley, Lily, Kristen, Izzy and Jake went for a run. Kieran and Amelia took this time to catch up on their summer reading and soccer skills. As soon as they got back we all jumped into the slightly green and chilly/refreshing pool. We played in the pool until teatime when everyone but Kieran and Monica got out. Kieran and Monica, under the watchful eyes of their lifeguard Izzy, competed until Kieran got a massive calf cramp (not to fear, he has now recovered). We have all now gone our separate ways to freshen up for dinner and are eager to see what we shall be fed.
Today has been a great recovery from the life changing but intense past week that we have all had. Hope everyone back home is doing great, and getting ready for the 4th of July.
(Written by Monica)