The Annual Maralal Camel
Derby takes place in the month of August in Maralal. A perfect
description of Maralal by Magical Kenya; “The quiet town of Maralal, about 348
kms North of Nairobi, is the gateway to Kenya’s wild and arid North, and is a Mecca
for adventurers, nomads and camels.” A Camel is a single-humped animal that originated in East
Africa and later spread to Arabia. It is able
to survive long periods without water, and able to withstand changes in body
temperature. It is said to have been
domesticated 3,500 years ago and used since as an important pack animal. The
Maralal International Camel Derby brings hundreds of these beasts and their
owners together in a desert near Maralal.
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| Camel Ride Photo Source; Nat Afric |
The Maralal International Camel Derby is a fusion of colors,
cultures and marvelous animals: all competing in the desert for the honors of
having the top camel in the world. A serious sport and a wonderful spectacle
with entrants from Australia, America, New Zealand, Canada, England, France,
Spain, Japan, South Africa and around the world. It is hosted at the Yare Camel
Club and Camp, 3 kilometers south of the township of Maralal.
The Derby tests
the speed and strength of the camels, and the handling abilities of their
owners or jockeys. In addition, cycling races, donkey rides, local dancing
displays and stalls where curios and handicrafts, among other things, are
available.
Join in the fun by hiring a camel and a handler for the day,
and enter the amateur races over 10 kilometers for a fun ride through the
desert. The elite race is 42 kilometers, passing through the Maralal Township
and semi-desert environments. The derby this year will include a 5 km fun run
for the physically challenged and bike races.
The Maralal Camel Derby
will take place from the 24th – 26th August 2012 at Yare Camel Camp in Maralal.
from Kshs 15,000/= per person (for three days)
Includes: -
• Return transport
• All meals
• All accommodation
• All camping equipment
For more information contact Mukhtar Sidi;- +254721215426 www.bunduz.com
For a 9-seater Van and a 29 seater Bus for Hire Call +254 705620622
