Going to Lake Nakuru

7/1/09
Our adventure in the Masai Mara came to an end, and we went on our way
to Lake Nakuru national park. Overall, the impression that the Mara
left was that its an incredible space on Earth. Its an unforgettable
experience to be able to witness nature in action. While we see it in
our daily lives, the nature seen here is relatively unadulterated by
human beings. Yes, there are cars moving about with safari goers, but
compared to our lives in the urban US, its minimal impact.

We stopped at a gift shop, where I bought a rosewood bowl and a cloth
picture for $60...probably too much, but bargained down from $160, so
I felt I did ok!

On the way to lake nakuru, was passed through some wonderful
countryside, reached an altitude of 2784m (8000+ ft). The towns and
countryside reminded me of what I would saw in India as we drove
around. Lots of activity, even though the towns looked run down.
Cell phones galore.

Reminds me, we learned about cell phones have been revolutionary here
for commerce. People can get banking services via their phone.
Essentially the cell phone company has agents all over who act like
small banks. People can deposit and withdraw cash. More importanly,
using this account they can pay bills and each other via their phone!
Its so much more secure than cash transactions, and allow access to
many more markets!

Lake Nakuru (LN) is near the town of Nakuru which is a small city. I
definately felt like we were much closer to "civilization" as I am
used to. The national park is only about 5km outside of the town
centre. We drove in, and up to our "camp," which was more like a
resort. The "tents" were really just covers for a hotel room,
complete with 3 beds, and a full bathroom! the tents top had a tiki
roof top, which as quite nice. Definately not roughing it!

We rested a little, had a nice lunch, and then went off for the game
drive. LN is famous for the birds that can be seen there, most
importantly the sea of flamingos! It was amazing to see huge patches
of pink on the lake. We got out of the van and walked around (we
never get out around other animlas). The scene was truly amazing.
While walking, I managed to step in "it"...so that was uncomftable for
a while, given I only have flip flops on! remember, my shoes were
stolen, so I only have flip flops for the trip.

We also saw storks, baboons, zebras, rhinos (one sleep and others from
far), and a familty of giraffes, very close. It was awesome! We went
up to a place called baboon lookout point, where we got an aerial view
of the lake...truly magnificent!

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