Cycle of Life

‘Wellness’ has become the new buzzword when it comes to what people are focusing on and looking for when they travel. It’s not just about travelling to a new destination and ticking a checklist anymore — you’re encouraged to slow down, take time to soak it in, and ideally connect with nature.

Angama Mara offers a long list of curated experiences that have been developed, each with a clear purpose. You’re in the home of the world-champion runners, of course, 'Run with a Kenyan' should be on the list.

You find yourself in Maasai land, why wouldn’t you jump at the opportunity to walk with and learn from a Naturalist on a Walking Safari? The sun rises over the Mara and lights up the Yoga Deck — it’s calling for a sun salutation.

The first time I came to Angama Mara I really wanted to Run with a Kenyan. But as a member of the team, I felt too bad to make a member of the Angama Running Club (who are phenomenal runners) have to do bouts of 50m running, majority walking and then maybe run again as we near the end, just to make it seem like I ran. In short, I am not a runner; I can walk far and fast, but running is not my forte.

I truly love the Fitness Room with a view, and I never tire of the Walking Safaris, but every now and then, I would love to get the blood pumping without forcing a runner to walk. This is where Collins (General Manager at Angama Mara) comes in. During leadership training, he arranged bicycles to cycle as an activity for those who were interested.

Say no more, I was the first one to sign up. The next morning, the cyclists were all ready and waiting at the Pavilion, and we set off for the nearest town, Kawai. It wasn’t long into the ride when the rain started, then it got a bit heavier… and then it turned into a downpour.

‘Come rain or shine’ comes to mind when I think of that experience. We were a group of five, and you could hear us laughing and cheering each other on through the rain and mud. Of course, there’s no need for a guest to have to ride in the rain, but that’s how much fun the experience was — we just didn’t want to turn around.

When we got back to the lodge, covered in mud, we were all smiling from ear to ear and said this has got to be added as an experience for guests. You ride past the animals, the blood is flowing, and despite there being people with you, you just take it all in as you sit on your bike and pedal your way through the beauty that is the Mara.

So, if you find yourself at Angama Mara, and you want to be active, I highly, highly, highly (one more time for the people at the back) recommend jumping on a bike and doing a Cycling Safari — you won’t regret it.