Africa…I have always associated this continent with endless space, wild animals and beautiful nature in the golden light of the setting sun. I wanted to experience it as intensively as possible. I wanted to go deeper. I wanted to get to know the people. Know how they live. Feel their originality. And in the middle of the bush. I wanted to live with the Maasai.
A very special place
I found a place in Kenya through workaway.info. It was very important for me to have this experience with the Maasai in Kenya. Ever since I can remember, my father has told me about Kenya. I know his pictures by heart. His stories became my idea of Africa and I wanted to experience it there. 40 years after his trip, I arrived in Maji Moto. The Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp offers its guests a journey into Maasai culture. Only Maasai live and work here and I lived with them for 5 weeks.
I helped on the farm and supported the camp in marketing matters. I was even allowed to help with their bee project and got an insight into beekeeping. I cooked and ate with them, I laughed and danced with them. I became a part of them.
And when I needed time for myself, I climbed the nearby hill and enjoyed the view of the endless expanse of Kenya. Watching the sun disappear behind the mountains in the evening, caressing the landscape with its incomparable light, I felt that this place in the middle of Africa was something very special.
The Maasai
Each of the Maasai I met has their own story, but they all have one thing in common: they grew up in their village, in the family circle. The men were raised to be warriors or herded cows and sheep until they went to school. After that, they went their own way and found their place in the camp. They take the guests with them into their culture and traditions. They sit around the campfire in the evening, dance and sing, and the guests listen with fascination. Since the Maasai language has never been written down, they pass on their news and experiences in their songs. So each song is like a message and even if I don’t understand them, it is a very magical moment to listen to their singing in the glow of the fire under the sky of Africa with its millions of stars.
Listen to the songs of the Maasai. An original recording.
Come with me on a journey
The time in Maji Moto was a very special one. Equipped only with the bare necessities. Many of you experienced what it was like not to call me but to wait until I went to the place where I had a signal. But the Maasai welcomed me openly and friendly and we became a team. Even if we don’t speak the same language, we are all people who are curious about each other.
Come with me on a journey to Maasai land! I will take you to the “Olpul” and show you the diversity of wildlife and the wide open spaces of the Maasai Mara.
There are many tribes in Africa but the Maasai are one of the largest and probably best known.
Ashe Oleng
To Rose, Kolia (“Maasaaaaai!!”), Kupai, Kilia, Ikokia, Nelson (the cook) and Nelson (my bodyguard), Fred, Ben and Lenny. For your interest in me, for the many funny moments, for the great cooperation and heartiness. To Mashipei, Moira and Masiata. You three always gave me a smile.
And of course to Susan and Salaton. For giving me the opportunity to have this experience. You welcomed me so lovingly from the beginning that I just felt at home. You have fulfilled the desire to feel the heart of Africa. I will not forget you. Ashe Oleng – thank you!
PS: Learn more about the camp on the Website