3-Day Naivasha-Culinary Retreat

Your culinary journey begins with a scenic drive from Nairobi to Naivasha in a private Landcruiser passing through lush countryside and views of the Great Rift Valley. You’ll check in at Merinja Guest House, a top-rated B&B known for its exceptional hospitality, peaceful gardens, and personalized service. After settling into your cozy room, join your host for a guided visit to a local produce market to select fresh ingredients. Back at Merinja’s kitchen, dive into your first cooking session—perhaps preparing traditional Kenyan dishes like sukuma wiki, tilapia stew, or ugali. The evening ends with a relaxed meal on the garden terrace, where you enjoy your own creations under the soft Naivasha sky.

Start your morning with a light breakfast at Merinja Guest House before heading to a vibrant local market. With your host’s guidance, you’ll learn how to choose fresh vegetables, spices, and grains unique to the Rift Valley region. Return to the B&B to begin your second cooking class, focusing on more advanced methods such as fermenting traditional drinks or baking mandazi (Kenyan doughnuts). Your instructor will walk you through the process, blending storytelling with technique. After lunch, enjoy a quiet afternoon in the garden, or explore nearby flower farms or Lake Naivasha’s shore. Return to Merinja for dinner, where your meal reflects everything you’ve learned so far.

On your final day, the driver will take you to a serene picnic location near Lake Naivasha—perhaps a quiet spot under the acacia trees or along the Crescent Island shore. Here, enjoy breakfast-to-go snacks prepared at the B&B: fresh fruits, spiced tea, and baked treats like chapati or banana fritters. Back at Merinja Guest House, your final cooking session focuses on traditional breakfast fare such as mukimo or millet porridge. After enjoying a relaxed farewell meal with your host, reflect on the experience—flavors, techniques, and connections made. In the afternoon, your van departs back to Nairobi, completing a journey of authentic food, community, and relaxation.