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An Outlandish Encounter in Kenya – Maralals Camel Derby
An Outlandish Encounter in Kenya – Maralals Camel Derby.
The 10km amateur event is open to even novice camel riders, who can rent a camel, saddle, and handler on the spot!
It is considered that attending the Camel Derby in Maralal is a more refreshing cultural experience than the camel racing themselves! That’s not to say the races aren’t spectacular and fascinating; since the event’s inception in 1990, racers have come from all around Kenya and the world.
Start having fun and playing camel games.
This unique derby, which unites Kenya’s traditional tribes with the best camels in the area, is a thrilling (if not strange) blend of real culture and adventure sports.
Cultural features include arts and crafts booths, manyattas, traditional ceremonies, and native dancing. It is a true cultural feast as different Samburu tribes come together to celebrate by dancing and singing while wearing traditional attire and beaded jewelry. In addition to the renowned camel races, adventure events include fun runs, donkey rides, bicycle competitions, and kid-friendly activities.
International Maralal Camel Derby in 2013
Commencing on August 1st, 2013, this event is expected to be a three-day event that is entirely distinctive, colorful, and unusual, with a primary concentration on riding one-humped camels.
The yearly festival, which draws many local and foreign tourists (and camel riders), will once again take place close to the isolated market town of Maralal in northern Kenya. Over the years, camel riders from a wide range of countries have competed here, including Australia, New Zealand, America, Canada, England, France, Spain, Sweden, Japan, China, Mexico, Holland, Italy, and South Africa.
In Maralal, why?
Situated in the center of camel country, this isolated desert hamlet serves as the entry point to Kenya’s untamed northern region, which is one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness zones. Located around 345 kilometers north of Nairobi, this is a great place for adventure-seekers to stop, especially when the Camel Derby is taking place.
The race takes place in Samburu County, which is home to the nomadic Samburu people, who are Maasai kin, 3 km south of Maralal. As a means of transportation for the northern nomadic people, camels have played a significant role in this area of Kenya’s culture for millennia. With fierce rivalry, the camel derby is a celebration of the local way of life, and winning is a huge honor in the community.
The Experience of the Camel
The purpose of the race is to evaluate the endurance and skill of camel riders, both experienced and novice. Naturally, the competing camels’ strength and speed are also put to the test.
This event is designed to encourage participation rather than passive spectatorship. You will not be able to participate in the 10km amateur camel race (or pro), but you can participate in the bicycle race, the 10km fun run, or the 5km fun run for those with physical disabilities.