Visiting Masinga Dam for Holiday

Masinga Dam is a large man-made reservoir located on the Tana River in central Kenya. It was constructed in the 1980s as part of the Seven Forks Hydroelectric Project, which aimed to harness the power of the Tana River to generate electricity for Kenya’s growing population.

Masinga Dam is the largest dam in the Seven Forks scheme and has a capacity of over 1.6 billion cubic meters of water. It is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) and is a major source of hydroelectric power in the country. The dam has a power generation capacity of 40 megawatts and helps to supply electricity to the national grid.

Role of Masinga Dam

In addition to its role in generating electricity, the Dam also plays an important role in;

  • Irrigation and water supply for the surrounding area.
  • Provides water for agriculture, livestock, and domestic use, benefiting many communities in the region.
  • Masinga Dam is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy its scenic beauty and the opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

The Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station

The Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station is a hydroelectric power plant. Located at the Masinga Dam on the Tana River in Kenya. The power station has a capacity of 40 megawatts (MW) and is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).

Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station
Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station

Power Point

The Masinga Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in Kenya, East Africa. The power plant was built in the 1980s and has a capacity of 40 MW. It is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Kenya and is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).

The power plant utilizes the flow of the Tana River, which is dammed at Masinga to create a reservoir. The water is then released from the reservoir and flows through turbines to generate electricity. The power plant is part of a larger hydroelectric system that includes several other dams and power plants downstream.

The Masinga Dam has played an important role in meeting Kenya’s energy needs, as hydroelectric power accounts for a significant portion of the country’s electricity supply

Overall, the Masinga Dam is an important source of renewable energy for Kenya and has helped to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.

View Points

One of the best viewpoints for Masinga Dam is located on the Mwea-Embu road. About 10 kilometers from the town of Makutano. From this viewpoint, you can see the entire dam, as well as the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also several picnic areas and rest stops along the road where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery.

Another great viewpoint is located at the Kamburu Dam overlook, which is about 15 kilometers from the town of Mwea. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the dam and the surrounding landscape, and is a popular spot for photographers.

There are also several hiking trails in the area that lead to other viewpoints and scenic spots, including the Kivani Hill viewpoint and the Kyamwilu Hill viewpoint. These trails vary in difficulty, so be sure to check with local guides or park officials before embarking on a hike.

Overall, Masinga Dam is a beautiful and unique destination that offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

How to get to Masinga Dam

If you are coming from Nairobi, you can take the Thika Highway and then turn onto the Garissa Road. Follow the Garissa Road for approximately 120 kilometers until you reach the town of Kibirichia. From there, follow the signs to Masinga Dam, which is about 30 kilometers away.

Alternatively, you can take a matatu (shared taxi) from Nairobi to Kibirichia. Then hire a local taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to take you to Masinga Dam.

Best Hotels to Visit in Taita Taveta County

best hotels in Taita Taveta county

Best hotels in Taita Taveta County

best hotels in Taita Taveta county
best hotels in Taita Taveta county

  1. Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge: Located in Taita Hills Wildlife Conservancy, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  2. Lion’s Bluff Lodge: Perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the plains of Tsavo West National Park, this eco-friendly lodge offers breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations.
  3. Voi Wildlife Lodge: Located inside Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers an authentic African safari experience with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and game drives.
  4. Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort offers stylish accommodations, a spa, swimming pool, and a variety of activities such as game drives and cultural tours.
  5. Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Located in Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations and game drives to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.

Best Places to Visit at Machakos

Places to visit at Machakos

Places to visit at Machakos

Machakos is a town in Kenya with a rich history and culture. Here are some places to visit in Machakos:

Places to visit at Machakos
Places to visit at Machakos

  1. Machakos People’s Park – This is a popular recreational park that offers a variety of activities such as boating, cycling, and picnics.
  2. Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park – This park is located about 20 kilometers from Machakos town and offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimambogo and the surrounding areas.
  3. Machakos County Museum – This museum showcases the history and culture of the Machakos people. Including artifacts, traditional clothing, and cultural practices.
  4. Machakos Golf Club – This is a great place to relax and play a round of golf with friends and family.
  5. Fourteen Falls – This is a spectacular waterfall located about 60 kilometers from Machakos town. It is a popular spot for picnics and day trips.
  6. Mua Hills – These hills offer stunning views of the surrounding areas and are home to the famous Akamba woodcarvers.
  7. Kyamwilu Hill – The Kamba people are said to have fought against British colonial forces at this historical site.
  8. Iveti Forest – This is a great place to go hiking and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  9. Kituluni Hill – This hill is famous for its “anti-gravity” phenomenon. Where objects appear to roll uphill against the force of gravity.
  10. Masaku 7s Rugby Tournament – This annual rugby tournament is a popular event in Machakos and draws crowds from all over the country.
  11. The Komarock Shrine –  Is a religious site located in the Machakos County of Kenya. Christians frequently visit the shrine located in the Komarock area near Machakos town as it is a well-known pilgrimage site associated with miracles and healing.

Best Places to Visit in Kwale

Kwale

Kwale is a county located in the Coast region of Kenya. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and diverse wildlife. Here are some of the top sights to visit in Kwale:

Diani Beach

This is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Kenya, located in the southern part of Mombasa. Diani Beach has clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and plenty of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports.

Shimba Hills National Reserve

The reserve is known for its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a chance to see the endangered Sable Antelope.

Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary Kwale

This is a unique sanctuary that provides a home for rescued elephants in Kwale County. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals.

Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest

This is a sacred forest that is home to the Digo people, an indigenous tribe of Kenya. The forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and visitors can learn about the cultural practices of the Digo people.

Tiwi Beach

It has calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports. It is also known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

It offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including snorkeling, diving, fishing, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by a diverse ecosystem, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and marine life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park

This is a marine park that is home to a variety of marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and a diverse range of fish species. Visitors can go on snorkeling and diving trips to explore the underwater world.

Chale Marine Park Kwale

Chale Marine Park is a protected area located on the southern coast of the island of Diani Beach.

The marine park is home to a diverse range of marine species, including over 200 species of fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and various types of coral. Visitors to Chale Marine Park can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottomed boat rides.

Colobus Conservation

Colobus Conservation focuses primarily on the conservation of the colobus monkey, a primate species found in the forests of East Africa. The organization works to rescue and rehabilitate injured or orphaned colobus monkeys, and provides veterinary care, food, and shelter to these animals until they can be released back into the wild.

Jungle Snake Park

The park is situated about 30 kilometers from Mombasa and is famous for its collection of snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles.The park offers visitors an opportunity to see some of the most dangerous snakes in Africa, including black mambas, spitting cobras, and puff adders, among others. Visitors can also watch crocodiles being fed and learn about the various species of reptiles found in Kenya.

Wasini Island

A small island located off the coast of Kwale. That is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Bongoyo Island

A small island located off the coast of Kwale that is known for its beautiful beaches. And stunning snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Ukunda Airstrip Kwale

It is a popular landing strip for small aircraft that offers visitors a unique and exciting way to experience the area’s stunning scenery.

How to get to Kwale county

By Air

The closest airport to Kwale is the Ukunda Airport, which is located approximately 20 kilometers from the county. You can fly into Ukunda from Nairobi or Mombasa using domestic airlines such as Jambojet, Fly540, and Safarilink. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a matatu (local public minibus).

By Road

You can also drivefrom Nairobi or Mombasa. If you are driving from Nairobi, take the Mombasa Road towards Mombasa, and then take the Likoni Ferry to the south coast. From there, take the Diani-Kwale Road to Kwale.

By Public Transport

If you prefer to take public transport, you can take a matatu from Nairobi or Mombasa to Kwale. Matatus are available at designated bus stations, and they are a cheap and popular mode of transport in Kenya. You can also take a long-distance bus from Nairobi or Mombasa to Kwale, which are available from various bus companies.

Top Sites to Visit in Kilifi

Top sights in Kilifi

Kilifi is a coastal town in Kenya that is known for its stunning beaches and lush green landscapes. Some of the top sights to visit in Kilifi include:

  1. Bofa Beach – This pristine white sand beach is surrounded by palm trees. And offers clear blue waters that are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
  2. Mnarani Ruins – These ruins are a remnant of a once-thriving Swahili settlement. And they offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
  3. Kilifi Creek – This narrow inlet of the Indian Ocean is a great place for kayaking and fishing.
  4. Mida Creek – This creek is an important wetland area that is home to a variety of bird species. Making it a popular spot for bird watching.
  5. Mnarani Marine National Park – This marine reserve is a haven for sea turtles. Dolphins, and other marine animals.
  6. Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest – This sacred forest is a protected area that is considered to be one of the most important spiritual sites in Kenya.
  7. Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve – This reserve is home to over 400 species of birds and several species of primates, Making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach, explore the rich cultural heritage of Kilifi, or immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, there is something for everyone in this picturesque coastal town.

Best Places to Visit in Nakuru City

Nakuru

Nakuru is a city located in the Great Rift Valley region of Kenya, known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top places to visit in Nakuru:

Nakuru

Lake Nakuru National Park

This park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including endangered rhinos, flamingos, zebras, and lions. Visitors can enjoy game drives, bird watching, and scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Menengai Crater

This massive volcanic crater offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as hiking trails, hot springs, and caves to explore.

Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site

This archaeological site is home to ancient human settlements dating back thousands of years, and offers a glimpse into the prehistoric culture and lifestyle of the region.

Kariandusi Museum

This museum showcases the prehistoric tools and artifacts found in the nearby Kariandusi archaeological site, and provides insights into the evolution of early humans and their use of tools.

Lord Egerton Castle Nakuru

This historic castle was built in the early 20th century by Lord Egerton, a British aristocrat

Lake Elementaita

This alkaline lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, bird watching, and stunning sunsets over the lake.

Menengai Forest Reserve

This forest reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, monkeys, and over 180 bird species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Mount Longonot National Park

This park is named after the imposing Mount Longonot and is known for its scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Lions Hill Nakuru

This hill offers stunning views of Nakuru town and the surrounding area, and is a popular spot for picnicking and sightseeing.

These are just a few of the many attractions that make Nakuru a popular tourist destination in Kenya

Ashnil Samburu Tented Camp in Samburu

Ashnil Samburu Camp

Ashnil Samburu Camp

Ashnil Samburu Camp, located in the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya, offers a luxury tented camp experience. The camp features 30 tents designed with a contemporary African style, equipped with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private balconies. The Ewaso Nyiro River spreads out the tents, providing a constant source of water for the wildlife in the area.

Ashnil Samburu Camp
Ashnil Samburu Camp

Ashnil Samburu Camp is known for its excellent game viewing opportunities. As the reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and a number of unique species found only in the Samburu ecosystem. The camp is also committed to sustainable tourism practices. And has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and support the local community.

Activities

Ashnil Samburu Camp is located in Samburu National Reserve in Kenya. And it offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. Some of these activities include:

  1. The camp’s guides offer morning and evening game drives, where guests can see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo.
  2. Nature walks: Guests can take guided nature walks in the surrounding areas, where they can learn about the plants and animals of the region.
  3. Cultural visits: Guests can visit nearby Samburu villages to learn about the local culture and customs of the Samburu people.
  4. Bird watching: The reserve is home to over 450 species of birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
  5. Sundowners: Guests can enjoy drinks and snacks while watching the sunset over the reserve.
  6. Bush breakfasts and dinners: Guests can enjoy meals in the bush, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
  7. Swimming: The camp has a swimming pool for guests to relax and cool off in after a long day of activities.

Overall, Ashnil Samburu Camp offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy, ranging from wildlife viewing to cultural experiences to relaxation by the pool.

Contacts

Address: Ashnil Samburu Camp, Buffalo Springs Game Reserve, Samburu, Kenya

Phone: +254 725 289 430, +254 733 333 909

Email: samburu@ashnilhotels.com

Website:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Nairobi Kenya

Jomo Kenyatta international Airport

About

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the largest and busiest airport in Kenya, located in the capital city of Nairobi. It serves as the primary aviation gateway into Kenya, handling both domestic and international flights.

The airport was named after Jomo Kenyatta, the first president of Kenya, and was first opened in 1958. Since then, it has undergone several expansions and upgrades to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region.

JKIA has a total of two runways, with the longest being 4,900 meters long, and can handle large commercial aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.

The airport has a capacity of handling over 7 million passengers annually and serves as a hub for Kenya Airways, the national carrier of Kenya.

Jomo Kenyatta international airport
Jomo Kenyatta international airport

Jomo Kenyatta international airport Facilities

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is the main international airport in Nairobi, Kenya. The airport has a range of facilities to accommodate travelers. Here are some of the facilities available at JKIA:

  1. Shops and Restaurants: There are several shops and restaurants available at JKIA, offering a variety of products and cuisines.
  2. Currency Exchange: There are currency exchange counters and ATMs available at the airport for travelers who need to change money or withdraw cash.
  3. Duty-Free Shopping: Passengers can enjoy duty-free shopping at the airport, offering a range of products including electronics, cosmetics, and souvenirs.
  4. VIP Lounge: There are VIP lounges available for passengers who wish to relax or work in a more private and quiet environment.
  5. Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport for passengers to use.
  6. Baggage Services: There are baggage storage facilities available at the airport, as well as baggage wrapping and lost and found services.
  7. Medical Services: There is a medical center available at the airport, staffed with trained medical personnel to provide emergency medical assistance if needed.
  8. Car Rental Services: Car rental services are available at the airport for passengers who wish to rent a car for their travels.
  9. Parking: There are several parking options available at the airport, including short-term and long-term parking.

Jomo Kenyatta international Airport
Jomo Kenyatta international Airport

How To Get There

To get to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), you have several transportation options depending on your location in Nairobi and your budget:

  1. Taxi: You can take a taxi from any location in Nairobi to JKIA. Taxis are available from many taxi companies, and you can also hail a taxi on the street. The cost will depend on the distance you are traveling and the time of day, so it’s always best to negotiate the fare beforehand.
  2. Ride-sharing apps: Ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Bolt are available in Nairobi, and you can use them to get to JKIA. Just like with taxis, the cost will depend on the distance you are traveling and the time of day.
  3. Matatu: Matatus are minivans that are commonly used for public transportation in Nairobi. There are several matatus that go to JKIA, and you can find them at various bus terminals in the city. The fare is relatively cheap, but matatus can be overcrowded and uncomfortable, especially during rush hour.
  4. Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Nairobi and JKIA, including Kenya Airways buses, Air Kenya buses, and others. The buses are comfortable and spacious, and the fares are affordable. You can book your ticket online or at the bus terminals.
  5. Private Car: You can also choose to hire a private car or use a personal vehicle to get to JKIA. However, this option can be quite expensive, especially if you are traveling a long distance.

Jomo Kenyatta international airport Contacts

  1. Airport Customer Care: +254 (0)20 822 111/2/3
  2. Airport Security: +254 (0)20 822 141/2
  3. Kenya Airports Authority: +254 (0)20 661 1000
  4. Airport Police Station: +254 (0)20 822 109
  5. Lost & Found: +254 (0)20 822 341/2
  6. Customs and Immigration: +254 (0)20 822 210
  7. Airport Clinic: +254 (0)20 822 374
  8. Airport Fire Brigade: +254 (0)20 822 155/6

You can also visit the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport website for more information and contact details: https://www.kaa.go.ke/airports/jomo-kenyatta-international-airport/

The Maasai Market Nairobi

About

The Maasai Market is the excellent area to save in case you are searching out affordable, lovely and colourful souvenirs to take lower back home. It’s an open-air marketplace with a huge sort of merchandise along with African pots and pans, garments, footwear, earrings, footwear and bags.

You call it, you may locate it withinside the Maasai Market. It is one of the best reviews for safari-goers in Kenya. Travelers can locate paintings, drawings, curios, garments and fabric with East African prints. Hand-made earrings and wood-carvings also are available.

Maasai Market/photo

Location

The most famous Maasai Market amongst many Nairobians is the only positioned withinside the town centre at the back of the Hilton Hotel on the High Court parking lot. It is constantly open on Saturdays.

There is likewise one positioned on the Prestige Plaza alongside Ngong avenue which additionally operates on Saturdays. Note but that the Market is constantly rotating across the town at some stage in the week. It operates from approximately 8am to 7pm each day besides Mondays.

If you aren’t to be had on Saturdays, then you could visit the Yaya Centre in Hurlingham on Sundays, and at Kijabe Street Park contrary the Norfolk Hotel and subsequent to the Nairobi River on Tuesdays. The one on the Prestige Plaza alongside Ngong avenue is likewise open on Tuesdays.

Maasai Market/photo

On Wednesdays, visit the Capital Centre on Mombasa Road, the Junction Shopping Mall on Thursdays (alongside Ngong Road), or the Village Market in Gigiri and Lavington Mall on Fridays.

The Maasai Market Nairobi Items

  • Maasai Sandals
  • Jewelry
  • Shukas
  • Artwork
  • Kiondos

Maasai products/photo

The market moves around the city on different days of the week, typically operating from 8am to 6pm at each location.

  • Tuesday: Westgate Shopping Mall in Westlands (the upper car park) relocated to Kijabe Street opposite the Norfolk Hotel.
  • Wednesday: Capital Centre on Mombasa Road near the airport.
  • Thursday: Nakumatt Junction Shopping Mall on Ngong Road.
  • Friday: Village Market in Gigiri (the upper car park).
  • Saturday: The High Court parking lot in the city center (behind the Hilton).
  • Sunday: Yaya Centre in Hurlingham.

August 7th Memorial Park, Bomb Blast Kenya

August 7th Memorial Park

About

August 7th Memorial Park bomb blast is placed on the 1998 United States embassy bombings scene alongside Haile Selassie Avenue in Nairobi, Kenya. It carries a observe board list the names of each person that had been reported dead after the incident.

August 7th Memorial Park, Bomb Blast Entry Fees

The Memorial Park grounds are open daily from 7.00am to 6.00pm while the Visitors Centre is open Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 6.00pm, and Sundays/Public Holidays from 1.00pm to 6.00pm. Entry fee is Kshs. 30 to tour the garden and park grounds.

History

On August 7, 1998, at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time. Terrorists driving in a truck detonated a large bomb in the rear parking area. Near the ramp to the basement garage, of the American Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.

The blast at the American Embassy resulted in the deaths of a total of 213 people. Including 44 American Embassy employees (12 Americans and 32 Foreign Service National employees). Ten Americans and eleven FSNs sustained serious injuries. The blast also caused an estimated 200 Kenyan civilians to lose their lives. While 4,000 others sustained injuries in the vicinity of the embassy.

Damage to the embassy was massive, and especially internally. And lthough there was little structural damage to the five story reinforced concrete building. The explosion reduced much of the interior to rubble–destroying windows. Window frames, internal office partitions and other fixtures on the rear side of the building.

The secondary fragmentation from flying glass, internal concrete block walls, furniture, and fixtures caused most of the embassy casualties. The majority of the Kenyan casualties resulted from the collapse of the adjacent Ufundi Building. Flying glass from the nearby Co-op Bank Building and other buildings located within a two to three block radius. Other casualties were pedestrians or motorists in the crowded streets next to the embassy.

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