Ongata Rongai, Kenya

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Ongata Rongai, Kenya

Region: Kajiado County

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Geographic Coordinates: -1.400000, 36.770000

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 172570

Language: Swahili

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Ongata Rongai is a charming town situated in Kajiado County, Kenya. The town has a population of approximately 100, 000 people and is located about 17 kilometers south of Nairobi, The capital city of Kenya. Ongata Rongai is famous for its splendid culture, Picturesque landscapes and hospitable locals. The name Ongata Rongai means the place of many trees in Maasai language which accurately describes the greenery that surrounds the town. The area boasts several species of trees such as acacia, Baobab and eucalyptus trees that provide shade and create a peaceful atmosphere.

One fascinating feature about Ongata Rongai is its proximity to Nairobi National Park where visitors can observe wildlife like lions, Giraffes, Zebras, Buffalos among others in their natural habitat. Additionally, The park has picnic sites where visitors can enjoy meals while immersed in nature. Ongata Rongai has a rich cultural heritage which can be experienced through traditional dances such as the Maasai dance where participants jump high while holding spears or sticks above their heads. Visitors can also indulge in traditional cuisine like nyama choma (roasted meat) served with ugali (a maize flour staple food).

Furthermore, Ongata Rongai boasts numerous educational institutions including primary schools, Secondary schools, And universities like Multimedia University College of Kenya and Nazarene University College among others. In terms of infrastructure development, Ongata Rongai has undergone significant growth over recent years with modern shopping centers such as Tuskys ChapChap Mall being established within the area providing residents with access to goods and services they need without having to travel long distances. Overall, Ongata Rongai provides tourists an authentic Kenyan experience filled with culture, Nature, And adventure.

It’s an ideal destination for those seeking solace from the hustle-bustle lifestyle prevalent in Nairobi city.

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1. Ongata Rongai is a region in Maasailand, known for its rich Maasai culture and traditions.
2. The construction of the Nairobi-Mombasa railway line began in 1895 and passed through Ongata Rongai.
3. During the 1950s, Ongata Rongai was a hotbed of activity during the Mau Mau rebellion against British colonial rule.
4. Wangari Maathai, who won the Nobel Peace Prize, was born in Ihithe village near Ongata Rongai in 1940.
5. Julius Nyerere, former Tanzanian President lived in Ongata Rongai during his exile from Tanzania in the early 1960s.
6. Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s first president visited Ongata Rongai several times during his presidency to meet with local leaders and address community issues.
7. Kajiado County was established with its headquarters located in Kajiado town near Ongata Rongai in 2013.

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1. Nairobi National Park – a wildlife reserve located just outside the city of Nairobi.
2. Karen Blixen Museum – a museum dedicated to the life and works of Danish author Karen Blixen.
3. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – an elephant orphanage where visitors can watch baby elephants being fed and cared for.
4. Giraffe Centre – an educational center where visitors can learn about giraffes and even feed them from a raised platform.
5. Ngong Hills – a series of hills with scenic views of the surrounding area.
6. Maasai Market – a market featuring traditional Maasai crafts and souvenirs.
7. Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park – a park honoring Kenya’s independence heroes with monuments and memorials.

Note: It is always advisable to check current travel advisories before planning any trip due to COVID-19 restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances that may affect your visit to these places in Ongata Rongai, Kenya or elsewhere in the world at this time.

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1. Maasai Mara Cultural Festival – This festival celebrates the Maasai culture with traditional dances, music, food, and crafts.
2. Jamhuri Day – Celebrated annually on December 12th to commemorate Kenya’s independence from British colonial rule.
3. Mashujaa Day – Celebrated annually on October 20th to honor heroes who fought for Kenya’s independence.
4. Ongata Rongai Street Festival – A community event that brings together local businesses and residents for a day of food, music, and entertainment.
5. Ngong Hills Challenge – An annual marathon race held in Ngong Hills that attracts runners from all over the world.
6. Nairobi International Book Fair – A week-long event that promotes literacy and reading culture through book exhibitions, author talks, and workshops.
7. Koroga Festival – A popular music festival that features local and international artists performing Afro-pop music genres such as afro-soul and afro-fusion among others.
8. Lamu Cultural Festival- This is a three-day festival held annually in November to celebrate the Swahili culture of Lamu Island which is located near Ongata Rongai town.

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• Nyama Mama: Known for their grilled meat dishes, Nyama Mama offers a variety of Kenyan and African-inspired cuisine.
• KFC: This fast-food chain is a popular spot for fried chicken and other fast food options.
• Java House: A cafe-style restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a range of international cuisines.
• Masala Twist: A restaurant that specializes in Indian cuisine with an extensive menu of curries, tandoori dishes, and biryanis.
• Tazama African Cuisine: This restaurant offers traditional Kenyan dishes such as ugali (a staple maize meal), nyama choma (grilled meat), and sukuma wiki (a vegetable dish).
• Pizza Inn: A pizza chain that serves different types of pizzas along with sides like chicken wings and garlic bread.
• Jikoni Grill: Famous for its grilled meats such as beef skewers or lamb chops served with sides like fries or salad.
• The Crispy Chicken Inn: A local favorite known for its crispy fried chicken served with chips or rice on the side.

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Parks and Recreation

1. Maasai Ostrich Farm
2. Uhuru Gardens Park
3. Nairobi National Park
4. The Giraffe Centre
5. Karura Forest Reserve
6. Ngong Hills Nature Reserve
7. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage
8. Nairobi Arboretum Park
9. Mamba Village Crocodile Farm
10. Kenya Wildlife Service Animal Orphanage

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Its All About The Journey.

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