Wednesday 24th January - Lucy M

We had an active start to the day with Shae and Orla teaching us some acro yoga, which at first seemed impossible but by the end of the session most people had got the hang of it. 

We then headed off to a nearby village for water appreciation, an activity that has proven to be a favourite amongst the group. Using the village water pumps we filled mtungis (water containers) with water to be distributed to people around the village. We were lucky to also have the opportunity to be taught how to make flour for ugali - a staple food in Kenya made with maize - our group separated off and learned how to grind up corn using a large pestle and mortar. It is always a privilege to be able to talk to the people of these villages and gain a small insight into their lives and how lucky we truly are to have easy access to necessities such as water. 

Afterwards, we prepared to go on a ‘safari’ around Vipingo Ridge, which has a wildlife sanctuary with wild zebras, impalas, giraffes, and more. We were incredibly lucky to have an unbelievable encounter with a juvenile reticulated giraffe known as ‘Valentine’, who sidled right up to us, even going face-to-face with Madison (our designated animal whisperer). Being able to be this close to a giraffe was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We finished off the day enjoying the Vipingo Ridge two for one pizza night, and playing darts and table tennis, before heading back to Popes for the night.

Oceans Alive says:

Acro-yoga is a fun, active way to start the day. It is important to stretch after all the strenuous work!

Water appreciation and other village activities such as the process of cleaning and powdering maize - which many discovered is not an easy process! This maize flour will then be used to make a traditional kenyan staple food - 'ugali'. This gives the Leapers a chance to immerse themselves in the local community and culture and learn different ways of life. 

Vipingo Ridge is our neighbour and long-term partner. It is an award-winning PGA Championship golf course (www.Vipingo ridge.com). There are two restaurants, tennis courts, an huge swimming pool, and a large dam.  roam freely around the villas and graze around the golf course. It is home to almost 100 wild animals, including Oryx, Eland, Zebra, Wilderbeast and Giraffe (none of which are dangerous predators) - which graze freely on the 2500 acres of land. The leapers had an incredible and truely special experience with 3 of the Reticulated Giraffes, after spotting them through the mango forrest.