Rough riding in Kenya

Liz; Sunny Isles Beach, FL — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:54:49 GMT

Absolutely true! I have done a great deal of work in and around central Kenya over the years and i still cannot get used to the "roads." While I tend to think of it as a game to see how far off the seat my petite body will fly upon ramming a rough spot, others with me have experienced actual injuries and great amounts of discomfort.

I have to say I do miss it sometimes. Because Kenya has such a special place in my heart, the feeling of a bumpy road is somehow synonymous with feeling good. I bought a Land Rover Discovery recently and always swerve INTO potholes and rough patches of road. At least there are no baboons in my way...

Rough riding in Kenya

Daudi, TX — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:56:55 GMT

Man you have me laughing hard..you and your people are brave fools..just some corrections..'Kichwa Tembo' (Elephants Head).. and 'Matatu' ... glad you enjoyed yourself

Rough riding in Kenya

sher, Ramona, CA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:06:07 GMT

well - this is what travel is all about - a new adventure. You should see some of the backroads in California. Why do you think they are called "backroads".

Rough riding in Kenya

Matt Cuddy, Burbank, Ca — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:07:25 GMT

Sounds a lot like driving through parts of Los Angeles, especially the "giant trucks driven by drunken, unhappy men." The 710 at rush hour?

Great read, thanx.

Rough riding in Kenya

Rose Karkoski , Mineville, NY — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:11:02 GMT

Welcome to the world of a Peace Corps volunteer who spent two years in Kenyan and endured those abominable roads and atrocious matatu rides--at the age of fifty three, and female at that.The experience was well worth the discomfort when I think of how appreciative the Kenyan people were for our help in building their nation.

Rough riding in Kenya

Leyla, PA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:14:18 GMT

My family lived in Kenya when I was growing up, and I visited in 2003. The whole stroy was so familiar..lol The road are bad, drivers are carzy but still such a beautiful country. The peopel are so friendly too, which makes up for the bad road

Rough riding in Kenya

Bob Mihalik — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:36:15 GMT

I spent six months in Kenya in 1970. We drove from Mombasa north all the way to Uganda and the roads were in very good condition especially around Nairobi. Has the infrastructure collapsed? and if so is this due to the recent weather conditions or politics? As a former English colony, Kenya seemed to be the most advanced of the East African community.

Rough riding in Kenya

Paul Carrington, Toronto, ON — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:47:01 GMT

I have to say that this is quite a comical account - especially since we did the drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara (through Narok) in April 2006. I would like to say that this account is exaggerated, but that's not the case at all. The roads are, in a word, horrendous.

It was funny for us too (me, my wife, 2 daughters) to arrive at Serena lodge only to find out that we were the only ones in the entire park at the time that drove.

But by this time we were fairly accustomed to hard-living since we were serving as missionaries in a tiny village near Lake Bogoria, in the Rift Valley, about 5 hrs north of Nairobi. Good story - made me chuckle.

Rough riding in Kenya

Bill Northrop, McMurray PA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:48:42 GMT

I took this same journey two years ago. I concur with Mr. Fletcher...it was the most bone-jarring trip of my enitre life. Until you experience it you simply cannot imagine the conditions of the road and the terror of the ride. You are literally thrown around the inside of the vehicle as you hurtle towards your destination.
It only took us 6 hours but it felt like 12. When we finally arrived we were sore and tired but happy to be alive and could only longingly admire the small planes overhead gliding into their final approach on the nearby runway.

Rough riding in Kenya

Patty Fletcher, Raymond Illinois — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:56:26 GMT

Three years ago I went to visit Tapandany Academy in West Pokot Kenya. My experience was much the same. We drove north from Nairobi through Nakuru, Kitale and then down as escarpment to Kacheliba through some river beds to the area of Tapadany. After the 20+ hours of flying and an 8 hours trip in Jeep Landrover, we arrived at the school. An amazing sight! Camels pass through the compound on a regular basis, but in the middle of nowhere there is a school for 800+ children who are the first generation being taught to read and write their own Pokot language along with English and Swahili. Seems impossible that the school can feed 800 children two meals per day and education them on a budget of about $80,000 USD. That pays the 14 teachers and about 6 support staff as well. They are hoping to add a secondary school in the future. To learn more about them go to www.kenyacope.org

Rough riding in Kenya

Joshua — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 19:23:11 GMT

This is the worst story i have heard of Kenyan roads yet. I know they are in poor condition but not as bad as you describe. I guess you went to Kenya with an already prejudied mental image of poor-third-world-country and you had to come back and tell a story that a lot of less-travelled Americans will believe because that is what they expect to hear. For your information, I have driven to Kichwa (not Kichwe) Tembeo three times in the last 10 years wihout breaking my back. My advice is get more travel assignments to Africa, S. America, etc; you do not have to make your stories fit a stereotype in order to be read. Just tell the truth.

Rough riding in Kenya

Kathy, Fremont, NH — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 19:40:46 GMT

I found this article very interesting since I just got back from 2 weeks in Kenya, part of which was spent on the Masai Mara. It seems the budget must have been very low - the cost to fly from Nairobi to the Mara was $120 per person. I decided it was worth the money to spend more time in the Mara than in transit.

Rough riding in Kenya

Maria, Arizona — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 19:48:44 GMT

Oh please- I just returned form 8 days there, driving the whole way, and found it a wonderful experience of a lifetime. We would have missed way too much by flying. Sure the roads are rough, but it's all part of the experience (and I have a bad back, too).

Rough riding in Kenya

Judi Blumenthal — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:03:09 GMT

Having just returned from the Mara myself, I am dreaming of the day I can return and travel through the peaceful savannah while standing on the back seat of a LandRover, head and shoulders out the roof, shooting photos as we go. I, too, have a bad back - herniated disks in lower lumbar - and, although I was at first concerned, didn't have a single problem for the 2 weeks we were in that magical land. Sure. The roads and animal trails are rough going but you're on the savannah - grass land - not an interstate.

It's unfortunate you had such a drive or, maybe, that your focus was on the drive - rather than on the magic of the land, animals, & people around you.

Rough riding in Kenya

judy kramer — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:07:54 GMT

Brings back fond memories.....

Rough riding in Kenya

Sheila A. Oley ,PA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:14:20 GMT

Went to Kenya the past two years and can verify road conditions. The vans are called Matatus and up until a few years ago they had no occupancy limits. As a result they are a little more desirable today. I was wondering why you were at the Mara. It was one of the most amazing places I have ever seen or read about. I worked in the Kibera slums and you can hardly believe the contrast.

Rough riding in Kenya

carol, newark, delaware — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:18:51 GMT

I am from Kenya and you had me crying and laughing at the same time!!! The last time i went to the Mara was 10 years ago the roads were bad i can only imagine how they are now. And its matatu not makatu..

Rough riding in Kenya

Tracy Walters — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:19:18 GMT

As someone who has spent a lot of time in Africa, predominantly Kenya’s neighbor Uganda, I can sympathize with the state of the roads. I am surprised, however, that you experienced back pain and broken equipment. I’ve spent many weeks driving very remote areas deploying computers in remote hospitals and clinics and didn’t have similar experiences. I used HP computers shipped to the dealer in Kampala, configured them, tested them, then loaded them in their original cartons and on a Land Cruiser to take them to the remote location. I didn’t have a single DOA on site and suffered more from sleeping on rather lumpy mattresses and ground mats than the ride (I’m 50 years old). Probably the most interesting ride experience is when Tsetse flies swarmed onto our vehicle, and the driver, visibly scared, raced down the road to try to shake them off while admonishing me to close all the vents and windows.

I had a great time doing it, though, and met some truly wonderful people along the way. I hope you had the same experience.

Rough riding in Kenya

Mark, San Francisco — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:29:54 GMT

Reading the story made me think that kenya has become a cave country. We all know how rough the drive to Masai Mara is but it is part of the tourism experience. By the way, it seems you went searching for a bad experience since you have not mentioned what you discovered. Were you on a research tour affirming your hypothesis that roads in Kenya are in a dispicable state? I have driven on some roads in the states and I can simply compare to those in Masai Mara
I am glad there are others out here who have got a good experience travelling and experiencing the best countryside there is. Not to mention that I am from that part of the world and not being prejudiced at all

Rough riding in Kenya

Ron Bryan, Oskaloosa, Iowa — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:37:29 GMT

Having traveled in kenya in 2004 and 2007 as well as Uganda in 2007, I would like to comment that since 1962 (according to locals) when Kenya received independence from Great Britain the infrastructure has had little attention. I found the same to be true in Jamaica when traveling there in 1999 and 2000. None of these trips were vacations by the way.

Rough riding in Kenya

Scott King, Salem, Oregon — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:41:07 GMT

I made that descent by Safari van in late 1990. I remember the huge, dirt pot holes and us weaving through them like a pylon course. The ensuing fear was somewhat offset by the serene, surrounding tea fields and a warm orange Fanta at the nearest roadside store.

Rough riding in Kenya

John Maxwell, Tokyo Japan — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:43:27 GMT

C'mon you couldn't have been that out of touch with reality? I wish you could've enjoyed it for the majority of us here who would've gladly switched with you in a heartbeat. Its a different culture and environment. Embrace it, its the only way you'll appreciate it. Doesnt make sense going to a DEVELOPING country and point out its flaws to insanely impressionable citizens in developed countries! Hehe! I also loved riding in the "Makatu's"

Rough riding in Kenya

Trent Hope, Atlanta, Georgia — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:45:28 GMT

Agreed. I was in Kenya all of May and almost every day a few hours were devoted to driving around on the "roads". Even being only 20, by back was killing me many times through out my stay. After the "oh, get over it, this is Kenya" wore off, I was the first one to get off the bus and the first to place on the iPod and neck pillow. Lets hope these people will see better roads in the coming years.

Rough riding in Kenya

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:53:28 GMT

Dear Mr.Fletcher, What a hair raising drive you experienced! I hope you are better now and your back doesn't ache anymore. My mother and some friends went on a safari trip to Africa and the drives were really rough. It is interesting to see the animals, but is is hard on the body. Hope you had a smooth plane ride back. Take care of yourself Mr.Fletcher! Peace to all!

Rough riding in Kenya

Chris Trout, Richmond, Kentucky — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:00:13 GMT

A team and I just returned from Busia Uganda no more then a week ago. The most dangerious thing that we incounted was not the eight foot snake, but the 7 hour drive from the international airport in Entebbe to Busia. Dodgeing the taxie's, hundreds of people walking and on bikes to the UN trucks on the road made that drive the most intersteing one I have ever experience in the world.

Rough riding in Kenya

Scott McClure, Vanouver, WA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:07:40 GMT

Made that same trip back in '76 in a Volkswagon bug. I think some of the ruts in the "road" were almost as deep as our car was tall. I still can't believe we made it.

Rough riding in Kenya

Bob Patch, Arlington, VA — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:41:16 GMT

I did the Nairobi-Masai Mara trip along those roads a few years ago. The roads were bumpy and dusty, but that was part of the fun.. Those who want things to be as they are in America should stay in America. ----Bob Patch

Rough riding in Kenya

Brad B., Valdosta, GA (& Nanyuki, Kenya) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:42:46 GMT

Well, Joshua, I don't know what you've been smoking, but the story is, if anything, an understatement. I just made the drive last November, and to call the stretch east of Narok a "road" at all requires some imagination. And this is NOT a "backroad" Sher, from California--this is the main bloody highway from the nation's capital to its most famous game reserve, for Pete's sake!! You find yourself driving on the last crumbling bit of pavement, and you're being passed by oncoming traffic on BOTH sides (navigating the smoother dirt tracks)!! The road's condition has deteriorated over many years due to the rampant corruption of the federal govt. The only good roads in Kenya are near the home towns of current or recent Presidents, House Speakers, etc. We attempted to drive to Kichwa Tembo but after weeks of rain, the final 80-km--all dirt, much of it of the notorious "black cotton" was impassable. None of the tourist places will tell you these roads are impassable, even though they all certainly know it. The South Africans I met in Kenya during my recent 4-month stay there could not believe the condition of the "roads."

Rough riding in Kenya

James Boone, Flagstaff, Arizona — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:48:03 GMT

My then wife and I were in Kenya in the beginning of 1984. We traveled extensively throughout Kenya(south of the equator)by ourselves in rental vehicles, visiting several national parks and camping as well as a couple stays in "Bandas". We never encountered any of the "problems" the news crew had. It was truely one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences I've ever had. The people were absolutely amazing and of course the scenery was more fantastic than ever seen on a theatre or television screen.

Rough riding in Kenya

Dan Schuster, Portland, Oregon — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:55:45 GMT

I loved this article! In August I had a similar experience with our driver trying to find a new luxury tented camp along the Mara River escarpment. My back hurt so much after the 6-hour drive that I almost didn't go on safari. My daughter convinced me otherwise, and we ended up spending two hours digging our "safari vehicle" (a 2WD mini-van) out of a mudhole in lion country, while a curious giraffe looked on! The videos she shot of me digging the van out of the mud were among the most memorable moments of the trip -- and I wouldn't have traded the experience for anything!

Rough riding in Kenya

Ms Take — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:02:38 GMT

I agree with Joshua, Maria,Judy etc - yes the roads are bad but why is everyone acting so surprised? Anyone driven in downtown (and most of) Jackson, Mississippi of late?? I'm just counting the days to when my axle and struts will give way - and that's on the interstate. Anyway, Mr. Fletcher that you did make the trip albeit with prejudiced pre-perceptions, is an achievement in and of itself. Please realize, however, that because Kenya (read any other "third world" country) is not in the spotlight everyday, many ordinary readers (read potential investors, researchers, students etc) base their perceptions of the country on this minute piece of information. How about a piece about the digitized Nairobi Stock Exchange, the ingenuity of the entrepreneurs, some of the most prosperous companies in the world, or the brilliant Kenyan students and professionals making a different in the U.S. and in the rest of the world, world class coffee, tea and pyrethrum industries, a peaceful haven and refuge for the region's refugees, strong and successful women (and men) in business, science and in politics - not sensational enough for you, huh?

Rough riding in Kenya

diane, vancouver wa — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:04:51 GMT

loved the story, I can't wait to go back to Africa since my last stay in 2003. I would give anything for just one more trip down the roads bumping and the pushing the vehicle through God's most beautiful country. Hoped to get called back permentantly,God willing.

Rough riding in Kenya

Bill ("Wahoo") Voorhees, Chester, N.J. — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:25:21 GMT

Having made that journey less than a decade ago with the Kenyan legend Captain Russ manning a careening helm, might I respectfully suggest that this whining journalist get over it, pay attention to his spelling, get a Mitsubishi rather than a Land Rover, and ask the NBC brass to be assigned back to Tel Aviv from whence he came. Not to mention enjoy the magnificence of the Mara.

Rough riding in Kenya

Jim Teague, Skokie, Ill. — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:47:41 GMT

I have been to the Mara twice. We drove there (and back) in the fall of 2003. This February we flew in to Kichwa Tembo airfield from Nairobi.

Talk about two completely different experiences. Our 2003 trip down from Nairobi in two vans was uneventful ,except for each of us gasping at the beauty of the Great Rift Valley. On the way back, however we got separated when the second van overheated after the first left us in the dust. We limped home (11 hours instead of 9.5) but met some wonderful Kenyans, including some very friendly soldiers.

When we came to Kichwa Tembo this year, we literally had giraffes and elephants directly beneath us and to both sides of the plane as we made our landing. Fabulous. Our flight out of the Mara almost didn't make it (they are not allowed to take off or land after dusk... No runway lights).

I love Kenya and the Kenyan people. A trip to the Mara is just an added thrill.

Rough riding in Kenya

Miranda, Santa Fe, NM — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:52:03 GMT

Very true! I'm afraid it doesn't seem to be getting better. I lived in Kenya in the 90's and the roads to and on the coast are just as bad still. But that's all part of the experience.

Rough riding in Kenya

Unto Ryodi Felton DE — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 23:38:05 GMT

There is one thing u notice thou, U dont find any american chevys or ford or dodges in africa. They just cant take the roads. U see toyotas nissans and landrovers all over, they might look like they would fall apart anytime but they take u where ever u going. ps . I lived i africa for 15 years and still go back on regular basis.

Rough riding in Kenya

John Kabwere — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 23:43:32 GMT

The roads are not in great shape, but what do you expect when you go to see wild animals in their natural habitat.I guess you wanted a San Diego Zoo type of experience and all you got was a Savanna like experience.One wonders whether you were on a 'road condition review' trip or a once in a lifetime Safari experience.Kenya is not known for having fine roads.If you crave that experience go to Germany and be ready to capture that experience at 150 m.p.h

Rough riding in Kenya

Simon, Houston, TX — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 23:51:19 GMT

Tell the Truth 4 once, Its the most beautiful place I've ever visited. My wife and I make the trip every 3 years since 1980 and yes, we were in Tsavo this yeah. This country is a must see if you dream of going on Safari.. The people and Culture is just awesome

Rough riding in Kenya

Mama Liza, Sunset Beach, NC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:12:16 GMT

This makes me smile; and I don't believe there's an ounce of exaggeration in the writing! A trip from the little village of Kibwezi out to Mombassa, that should have been about 2.5 hours, took 6 hours -- back in 1999; the "road work" took us off into dust that was up even w/ the wheel wells. Yep, Kenya is grand -- and about as beautiful a place, w/ people equally as wonderful, as I have ever seen. But, alas, the roads are pretty horrid. And, I'd go back in a minute.

Rough riding in Kenya

Jayne Ferguson, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:27:18 GMT

Yes, aren't those African roads an adventure!! You could shake loose your teeth fillings after that trek - which I did in a Land Rover - great for the bush, not so great on unpaved, cratered roads....

Rough riding in Kenya

Dietrick — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:44:34 GMT

I have driven that rtoad many times, NO BIG DEAL!
Go on any Utah off-road trail and you get the same or simular experience. In fact I drove it two years ago in 4 hours straight from the Serena in Nairobi, for these guys to take that long means they drove at a snails pace. The faster you drive the more comfortable it get's.
The only hazard is indeed the African driver: absloute idiots....on cell phones blabbing and taking drugs to stay awake. But hey, that's like the average black dude in LA in his stolen Lincoln....

Rough riding in Kenya

smiley — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:54:55 GMT

Many American roads are not much better - check the log in your eye...

Rough riding in Kenya

Henry P, Medina, Oh. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:58:21 GMT

Reading through this article reminded me how in the 1970s, one of our college classmates spent some time working on new radio stations in Kenya. Unfortunately, there was a time that he had to drive up a hill to retrieve something from a work site. On the way back down, his native driver lost control and drove off of the hill resulting in his death. Sounds like after all of these years, Kenya can still use some good new roads.

Rough riding in Kenya

Akber A. Kassam. New-York City, New York. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 01:26:28 GMT

Dear Martin,

This is very intrestig and informative story. Thanks.
Keep up the good work.

Rough riding in Kenya

C. Ashford, Saginaw, Mi — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 01:29:38 GMT

Just got back from Kisii in Aug. We had a 6 hour ride from Nairobi and I had to videotape the turbulence just to get a chuckle with my kids. I loved the story and it actually brought back the nostalgia. I have to go back and I have to experience the bumps, the bumps, the bumps!

Rough riding in Kenya

Joyce Grabow, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 02:18:26 GMT

Someday I hope to visit the land you speak of but the questions I have: on the journey, is there emergency medical care, stop and rest sites with runing water,
villages with food for purchase, or does one back pack
what is needed for the trip?

Rough riding in Kenya

Prisca, minneapolis,mn — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 03:15:16 GMT

As much as people think its horrible, am still proud of that Country,its my home country and will always be. People are friendly and genuine. Yes, blame it on the driver, he must have been rough. I was there recently and yes the roads were bad, but who cares it was fun admit it.........

I hope you have other positive things to say.

Rough riding in Kenya

Andrew,Kisumu.Kenya — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 04:43:24 GMT

Oh please let us say the truth.I think there is abit of exageration on the Kenyan roads, however not to that extent.We all know that the road leading to such places arent very good , but the magic of the land, animals and the whole scenary far much outweigh the bumby roads.And infacts thats the reason why Kenya has alot of tourist coming from the west just to come and see what we have that is not found in most parts of the world.And that is part of the package as well.

Rough riding in Kenya

Edwin Thomas, Coppell TX. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 05:42:29 GMT

I wonder what took you there, Masaai Mara is an animal sanctuary, why do you need good roads for? It is understandable that the roads should be somewhat good, but your attitude smacks of personal prejudice.How do you know those truck drivers have not had good sleep, or that they are drunk or unhappy, i have visited kenya on several occations and i believe, those guys are the happiest fellows even in there "Poverty"

Rough riding in Kenya

Sylvia A — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 07:10:19 GMT

To expect perfect infrastructure in a developing country is not realistic and to decide that the roads outshadow the rich culture and experience that made you travel all the way is not fair. You may have a bad back but you for sure have no spirit of adventure.

Rough riding in Kenya

Shannon, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 07:46:14 GMT

This is classic! I just returned from a 3 week mission trip where we traveled throughout much of Kenya, including the Masai Mara. I agree with another comment...your budget must have been terribly low...we flew and we were on missionary salaries! However....we did drive from Tsavo to Mombasa...and I felt every pot hole, every bump, ever near death, almost head-on collision...and pretty much figured death by Matatu was imminent. We were piled 8-9 in the Matatu's...and spent a good 10 hours or so making our way to Mombasa on what could only be described as the world's most dangerous and unforgiving "road", if you could call it that...often it was dirt...or rather, mud, after a good downpour...our matatu's got stuck in the mud at least 5 times during our treks! It became a joke amongst the girls that no one warned us we needed to wear sports bras to make that trip! And might I add....NONE of our Matatu's had suspension....we felt EVERYTHING! Jambo! Habari Yako!

Rough riding in Kenya

r bryan — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 08:12:35 GMT

Thank you,been there like so many and yes laughing about rough roads, sore behinds and the drivers is all part adventure,thanks again.......

Rough riding in Kenya

jc, paris, France — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 09:09:42 GMT

Gosh you brought back some memory there!!

I’ve lived over 6 years in East, Central & West Africa and, like many others in here, I have many stories…but I have to say: Kenya is the worse/best for roads (much worse than Niger Burkina & Tchad before 2000…): reason is mainly in the Matatus (crazy “rasta taxis”) and the so call “trucks”

I remember these roads.. broke two wheels (wheels.. not tires) on a hole.. (still don’t know how the care didn’t roll over..) nearly “had” a giraffe and some other beasts at night.. went on some paths feeling the stones moving up the floor of the car…

I have been in every parks in Kenya and believe me: when you stop the engine, look and listen to the wild in a park after such a trip… your experience is thousands times stronger than in a comfortable van after a nice flight with a welcome cocktail…

Thanks for all these memories and stop complaining Martin: you had an experience interesting enough to write this, and you brought more people to react than you probably imagined..

Next time: TAKE THE ROAD BACK! Haha..

Rough riding in Kenya

Diane Redhead, Workington UK — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 09:21:01 GMT

Couldnt agree more if you dont want the dicomfort then suggest you dont go again! Its a magical country but no, it doesnt have as good a roads as we are used to in the West. Have both lived in Kenya and since visited as a tourist. Am due to go again in three weeks time, and am looking forward to every second. Dont let the conditions of the roads put you off.

Rough riding in Kenya

jeff lufkin texas — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 10:09:23 GMT

one common theme-not everyone misses kenya's finest roads but we do miss the people and scenic beauty with it's exotic wildlife

Rough riding in Kenya

Paul Belous, Castro Valley, Ca. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 10:13:23 GMT

Your ride to the Mara was smooth. Next time you're in Kenya take the road to Narok. You'll get bounced right out of the Land Rover.

Rough riding in Kenya

Nancy, Woubrugge, NL — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 11:46:16 GMT

Beautiful country, wonderful people who deserve so much more. If we had flown through the country (from park to park) we would have missed out on the joy of the Kenyan people. The backroads and four-wheel tracks of California look like superhighways compared to the road to Masai Mara. You know it's bad when most vehicles abandon the "road" in favor of driving on the dirt shoulder. In all fairness, there is a tremendous amount of road work currently taking place in Kenya, but it will take years to make up for the corrupt neglect of past governments.

Rough riding in Kenya

Kelly J, Louisville, KY — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 11:52:25 GMT

I had the pleasure of making the same trip in May
to the Mara from Nairobi, and I tell you I thought it would never end "The Road" I can still feel the bumps. When I look back at it the Mara was worth it,
but next time I will fly.

Rough riding in Kenya

Harshad Shah — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:02:39 GMT

We had the converse experience. Our plane landed in Masia Mara and were greeted by so called immigration officers (Bad arrangement for a sideline tour operator) who demanded that we give them our passports. We refused and they (Twelve of them surrounding 4 visitors from USA) took us shoving us in the car to a coumpund where they keep the poachers. We could see the stalls with high barbed wire fence and concrete buildings. We notice few of the care takers had the Gun as well. After an hour of contentious argument we forfeited over 2000 Sh/- which we noticed was distributed immediately after it left our hands. Luckily we escaped and our driver who did not say a word took us to Governers Camp our final destination. Rest of the trip was spectacular. The irony is that My wife and I were born in Nairobi and should have known better.

Rough riding in Kenya

Richard Smith, Damascus, Virginia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:21:02 GMT

Many years ago I was hitch-hiking in northern Kenya and got picked up by a Mau Mau gentleman who had been stabbed in the foot, and he asked me to drive the cab back to Nairobi, picking up passengers on the way. Your excellent article brought back many memories of that trip, which included a brawl on the dusty main street of some small town. (Btw, "numerous trucks laying on their sides" should be "lying" on their sides. Yeah, picky, picky.)

Rough riding in Kenya

Bob — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:05:10 GMT

Been to Masai Mara that way. Not that bad. You want to experience bad roads? Come to Haiti. Start with a trip from Port au Prince to Cange up Morne Cabrit. The reality of what so many Haitians have to go through for day to day survival on so many fronts will certainly capture your attention. You probably won't be thinking about wildlife. Thanks for the story! Brought back good memories.

Rough riding in Kenya

Kim Lee, Wilmington, Delaware — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:35:57 GMT

Your comments leave much to be desired. As a missionary who has worked in the country of Kenya for the last 13 years (I Just got back to the US a few months ago) I must say that most of what you describe is true, however, the little discomfort of the roads should not take away from the larger experience. There is no way the Kenyan roads will match with those in the US...the US roads are way much better, in the same tone, the Kenyan Experience cannot be found in the USA...it is unique to Kenya..Culture, Music, Wildlife, the People...only in Kenya

Rough riding in Kenya

Waithira, Atlanta, Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:13:14 GMT

As a Kenyan, I think some of your statements are offensive especially the one about the men driving the trucks. I wish you overlooked some of the infrastracture problems and focused on the peacefulness of the Nation. Where else could you see animals and enjoy nature, with out spending money or taking a vacation? Just animals passing by at anytime, anywhere? This was just a bonus for your trip! Home sweet home!

Rough riding in Kenya

greg zelna melbourne, fl — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:39:58 GMT

Dudes,
I am 47 and will gladly take your place in a heartbeat, man ! Look at the positives, you are dodging zebra and antelope (how cool is that?!), driving across an African plain ! And all you can do is complain its bumpy ?! C'mon. And shame for not adequately packaging your expensive gear.
MAZUGUS !

Rough riding in Kenya

Mike, South bend, IN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:41:13 GMT

I don't know how you made it from Kisii to Nairobi in 6 hours - it took me nearly 10 hours when I visited in Nov 2006. We also went from Nairobi through Narok to the Maasai Mara, and the article is NOT an exaggeration. The roads are terrible but the people are wonderful. I will absolutely go again as soon as I can afford it.

Rough riding in Kenya

Audra, Oak Lawn, IL — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:45:20 GMT

I went to university in Kenya and made a return trip there last year. While there, we traveled from Lake Victoria to Mombasa and from Mt Kenya to the Tanzanian border. I read this story in disbelief as I never saw the accidents that this writer claimed to have seen. While the roads in some of the National Parks are certainly an adventure, that's part of what a safari is: an adventure. If you want perfect roads, stay in your house because that's the only place you'll find them. Oh, and I have 2 rods, 4 pins and 6 spinal fusions holding my spine together, and I never had a problem with my back: even in the National Parks or when we slept on the ground... maybe you should see a doctor, and then ask for assignments that keep you in the cities of the United States.

Rough riding in Kenya

john g. njagi — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:19:25 GMT

Your story made me laugh so much my coworkers had to find out what the jokes was...but they are not Kenyans and so they don't get it!
Americans are used to perfection but you forget the imperfections in anything are where the interesting stories lie.
If you go to Kenya or any foreign country, please open your minds and stop with the ridiculous comparisons to developed countries.
If you think your journey was harrowing, imagine if the roads were well paved and those rickety vehicles you were travelling with were hitting 120miles an hour...you'd be dead from shock. Kenyan drivers are crazy...i should know, i'm kenyan.

Rough riding in Kenya

Harold (Tiger) Strauss Korat,Thailand — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:57:27 GMT

Sounds like quite an adventure. Bravo, for sticking to it.Travel is a wonderful thing, as long as it's on a paved road in an air counditioned car or coach with reclining seets! Better yet take the plane, want to bet next time you will.

Rough riding in Kenya

Harold ( Tiger ) Strauss — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:02:43 GMT

I wonder if Sylvia A would venture on that trip. Easy to critise those of us with a spirit of adventure and see it through. Shame on you! For damn sure if she don't have back trouble, she would after such a trip!

Rough riding in Kenya

Victor, Dallas, Texas — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:13:10 GMT

The story makes a good read though its full of terminological inexactitudes? Beyond the journey to the Mara, were there any interesting stuff or interactions that the writer can extol on? He seems to make the case that he had a grim experience in the country but i can bet him on his money that he had more fun than the lopsided master piece that has been put together here.
Kenya has its own fair share of blemishes, it is not a perfect country but we do not need imbalanced and prejudiced opinions to make the situation look worse than it is!! The roads whether good or bad form part of the whole safari package. Ever heard of the once notorious safari rally? It was never held on the Interstate or autobahn but those bush trails that you so lament about!!
I submit that you need to give us your account of the rest of your stay in Kenya. if still disgruntled, we have a zoo in Dallas worthy of your visit and praises.

Rough riding in Kenya

James D. Ward Atlanta Georgia — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:21:22 GMT

You guys are a bunch of crybabies. I have made that trip fifty times and three different ways without such difficulties. What would you do if you ever had to really rough it. Also get serious. tourist vehicles go this same route twenty times a day. <its not even an adventure unless it rains

Rough riding in Kenya

Doug, Fresno, California — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:42:15 GMT

I've been to Kenya twice... last month and August of 2006. Both times to Empowering Lives International's Training Center near Kipkarren (1 hour north of Eldoret). The first time we drove 13 hours (including a 3 hour traffic jam) in a small bus then flew back to Nairobi. This year we flew both ways. Yes, the roads are bad... but you gotta do it once for the experience. If Disneyland is the Happiest Place on Earth, then Kenya is the Friendliest Place on Earth. The country is beautiful, but pales to insignificance with the inner beauty of the people you meet. I think it's the nearest thing to heaven that I've seen on earth.

Rough riding in Kenya

Kitty Watson — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:21:49 GMT

Wow! So many strong feelings! May as well add mine. I have worked off and on in Kenya since 1991, and bad roads or not, it is a wonderful country with the best people I have ever met.....believe me, it is worth every moment one might have of inconvenience. I would not trade my time there for anything and can't wait to get back. (I do not safari....I teach in slums and rural outposts.) KW

Rough riding in Kenya

kathy casurine — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:39:07 GMT

We lived in Kenya for a couple of years and it remains one of my favorite places in the world. Sure there is immense poverty but the richness of the country and the people is a blessing. You just gotta get adapted and go with the flow. Even within the cities, the roads can be just as bad! Giant potholes that can practically swollow your car especially after heavy rains. Nothing to beat the beauty of the country and the wildlife parks. Would return again in a heartbeat, potholes, non-roads and other dangers notwithstanding!!.

Rough riding in Kenya

Harun, Glasgow — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:12:01 GMT

lmao. I have to admit part of the whole story is true, but the back-breaking affair just sounds exergerated. For the last 7 years, my dad and I have been exploring the Kenyan National Parks and Reserves probably trying to reinforce the dad-son bond but i cant remember him ever complaining about his back. The thing is,if you have been to most of the reserves you should have realized all the roads leading to reserves have one thing in common. Most, if not all, are well maintained upto almost a distance of almost 70 miles to the national parks. From Tsavo, Amboseli, Masai Mara, Samburu to L.Turkana, its all the same.
I believe the whole idea is to alienate one from the modern, ordely 'world' to the 'animal kingdom' and create that feeling of 'exploration' in everyone's mind plus I should think the start of the rough terrain should be a demnarcation of the reserve itself. Picture a smooth tarmac road to the top of Mt.Everest and, the usual spiked boots, ropes and oxygen tanks. Which are you likely to cherish? I'ld hate to see a tarmac road in any of those parks and reserves, that simple.
Oh yeah,one more thing, you have to camp outside to really say you have been to Maasai Mara. It is so much fun, can't wait for to visit Kenya again. Miss the roadside roasted maize, hangovers and TUSKER!,,,hehe

Rough riding in Kenya

Sue , Dallas, Tx. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:18:25 GMT

I was hopping to read about amazing wild life at masai mara and not what is being reported here, did u guys travell all the way from America to Kenya to just report about bad roads, drunken drivers and un happy men! by the way how did you know the drivers were drunk? fow how long shall foreign media keep on reporting negative stuff about Africa? I think this has to stop
Kenya is the best place to be - good people, good food etc - am pround to be a kenyan and i love my country

Rough riding in Kenya

Robert, Colorado Springs US — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:42:55 GMT

The roads may be bad, but the country is beutiful.

As to water issues, for which they were on the road,

Andrew in Kenya reports that he is struggling with so much rain.

Why can't they collect it and keep it clean.

Rough riding in Kenya

Dustin, Aloha, Oregon — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:16:58 GMT

I lived in Kenya from 1979 to 1981. This country is absolutely beautiful. I regret that I haven't been back since. The roads were in far better condition than those in other countries I had lived in... like those in Juba, Sudan. They may have been a little bumpy... but heck so are the roads here in the USA. Today. Life is an adventure... but only if you embrace it.

Rough riding in Kenya

Alfred, Dar es salaam,Tanzania — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:17:50 GMT

Martin,

This is very intrestig story which contains some descriptions which i guess can't be all true. Please,visit also in Tanzania and you can experience more

Rough riding in Kenya

Martin, Houston, Tx — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:48:06 GMT

Martin,
Great story, I grew up in Kenya and I don't think you were exagerating. Driving to Kichwa Tembo is suicide, you are lucky you survived to tell the story. After living in America and knowing what defensive driving is I do see how one might think all Kenyan drivers have a death wish. I hope the roads and the drivers will get better soon. It is a beautiful country with hospitable people so hope you visit again.

Rough riding in Kenya

mimi — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 09:27:08 GMT

Martin, we invite you to visit Houston museaum of natural history to see a lady called lucy( call first for she may be travelling to other meseaums). Read her story about where she come from-great rift valley-and then visit johnson space center to see where her offsprings are headed to.

Rough riding in Kenya

joseph ,Baltimore Maryland — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:27:44 GMT

The bad roads are all part of the safari experience . Nairobi and other kenyan cities have well maintained roads -The bumpy road is also an advantage for the masaai mara it keeps many cars from nairobi out ,Giving the area its clean fresh air only 168 miles from one of africas biggest cities with a polpulation of 6 million -can you imagine all those people and cars in the mara- Loved the story though great adventures are nothing like the slick us interstate highways. thats why the world rally championships run the worlds toughest rallies the safari rally in that areas -Enjoy your stay