Stowe Community Church Interfaith Outreach & Body Mind Spirit Journeys
present
A Dhamiri Journey: Mission Safari to East Africa
An opportunity to extend your faith journey through spiritual growth, fellowship and service to others, while experiencing the majesty of an African Safari visiting the great game reserves of Kenya & Tanzania:
Masai Mara, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara including spending time at the Nyalwodep Orphanage in Kisumu, Kenya and a Masai school in Tanzania… plus an optional post tour beach holiday in Zanzibar
July, 2027
This journey offers a profound opportunity to extend your faith through fellowship and service at the NYALWODEP project in Kenya and a community school mission in Tanzania. Beyond volunteering, you will engage deeply with the local culture and environment—learning directly from community elders, and cultural and spiritual traditions. Set within the raw majesty of East Africa, your personal renewal will unfold with visits to the great game reserves, including the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. An optional post-tour extension offers a reflective experience on the historic, UNESCO World Heritage island of Zanzibar.
Important Accommodation Note: Because many of the wilderness game lodges we are utilizing feature strictly limited capacity, this unique travel experience will be capped at a specific number of participants. We highly encourage early reservations to secure your place on this transformative journey.
A Special Message about our Africa fact finding tour and philanthropic Mission
Stowe Community Church, one of the most recognizable and photographed churches in Vermont, is an independent non-denominational affirming congregation who welcomes all individuals, families, traditions, religions and walks of life. We are guided by the belief that when we listen and learn together we build a more beautiful, resilient community. In 2007, a local physician introduced the Stowe Community Church congregation to the needs of a small Kenyan town, with children orphaned and women widowed by the AIDS epidemic. In 2005, local physician Jack Bryant and his wife, Nancy, met Kenyan Pastor James Ouma and his wife, Alice, during a visit to Kenya, and over the years advocated for the work Ouma had taken on in his Nyalwodep Project founded a few years prior. Soon, what started with only 35 orphans expanded to over 150. Ouma came up with the idea of a home-based orphanage to help the women and children left homeless by the disease.
Nyalwodep stands for Nyalgunga Widows and Orphans Development and Education Programs, and Ouma strives for the project to be self-sustaining, raising its own food, tending livestock, building shelters and providing early education. The Stowe congregation began supporting the mission in 2007 and has continued to support the Nyalwodep project year after year. In 2023 we were joined by the interfaith community in Lamoille County to fund running water and support for the school and teachers in our inaugarual trip to Naylguga. This trip has been a planned to return with a larger group of interfaith and community participants to assist the village with additional needs and explore faith and fellowship throughout Kenya and Tanzania.
Following our time with Pastor Ouma and the Nyalwodep project we will spend some time debriefing and discovering the wonders of nature, nurturing mind, body, and spirit while on Safari in Masi Mara reserve. We will continue to Tanzania to introduce our group to a school mission in Tanzania, explore the culture of the Masai and visit the Serengetti. We hope to provide additional assistance to each of these projects through our work in Africa and our fundraising efforts. At the end of the tour there is an optional trip for some rest and relaxation.
On return we will report back to our faith based and community service partners.
Important Note: As many of the game lodges we will be using have limited accommodation, the trip will be capped at a specific number of participants that can join. So early reservations will be important so as not to be left out of the unique travel experience.
TOUR INCLUDES
- Roundtrip transportation from New York
- Air Transportation within Tanzania
- Airport transfers
- 3 nights in Kisumu
- Additional nights in Luxury Boutique Lodges, “Glamping” Style Safari Camps & hotels
- All service charges and taxes
- Breakfast every day
- All lunches and dinners while on Safari
- Additional lunches and dinners as per itinerary
- Transportation by large deluxe Safari vehicles
- Inter Africa flight Serengeti-Lake Manyara and Arusha-Zanzibar (on Optional)
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
SPECIAL FEATURES IN KENYA INCLUDING KISUMU
- 3 night’s Accommodations including breakfast & dinner at the Pinecone hotel in Kisumu
- 2 full days working with widows and orphans at Nyalwodeo Orphanage
- Transportation to the famous Masai Mara Game Reserve
- 3 night’s accommodation at the Zebra Plains Collection hotel
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout
- Game viewing for the “Big Five” and other wildlife
- Flight from Masai Mara to Nairobi
SPECIAL FEATURES ON OPTIONAL TANZANIA SAFARI PROGRAM
- 6 nights “Glamping” & hotel accommodations in Tanzania
- Search for the tree climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park
- Learn the ancient ways of the Masai Warriors
- Have a cultural walk visit with a local Masai family
- Visit a Maasai Primary school and spend time with the children
- 3 Exciting days in the fabled Serengeti, one of the 7 Wonders of Africa
- Visit the famous archaeological site & the oldest human fossils on earth, Olduvai Gorge
- Experience the “Great Migration,” one of the greatest shows on Earth!
- See Pride Rock (made famous by the Disney movie, The Lion King)
- See the greatest concentration of game at Ngorongoro Crater
- Enjoy exquisite Bush Dinners under enticing African skies
SPECIAL FEATURES ON OPTIONAL ZANZIBAR PROGRAM
- A visit to historical Stone Town
- The infamous Prison Island
- Enjoy the sights & smells of the Spice Farm
- Participation in a local cooking class preparing traditional Zanzibar dishes
- A sunset cruise with drinks and snacks
- Time to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful beaches
Day 1- July 8: Depart New York
Meet at New York’s JFK airport for your non-stop flight to Kenya. Departure is at 1:45pm. For those who wish to come to JFK the evening before the tour (July 7), we have made arrangements at the TWA Airport hotel. Details with your confirmation.
Day 2- July 9: To Kisumu (B)
Arrival in Kenya and transfer to your flight to Kisumu. Upon arrival, Father James will meet us and escort us to our reserved accommodation. After time to refresh, we will have our Welcome dinner at our hotel.
Day 3 & 4- July 10 and 11: In Kisumu
After breakfast at our hotel in Kismu, we depart for the Orphanage to start our mission work for this trip with Pastor Ouma, going to the village and meeting with children and widows, while working in small groups with them to develop further relationships, provide health education, and support. We will plan fun and educational activities, have an opportunity to see the progress made since our last visit, and set goals for new initiatives.
Once the mission group is formed as part of our theme we will meet via Zoom for several sessions, including a book discussion. At that time go into details about the daily activities available for group participants, such as working in small groups with the children, helping to build a structure for the school, or spending time with the widows group, sharing song and story. Each day will be jam packed full of outreach and learning. We will tailor these ideas further as we progress through our preparation. Below are sample itineraries for a building project (The Physical Stones) and relational ministry (Living Stones).
To maximize our group’s impact, participants will gather together each morning. Then divide into focused outreach based interests, funding and skills, before reuniting for a shared cultural celebration … all based on faith, community, and action aligned with our theme of “Dhamiri ni dira.”
Overview details of the 2-day program at the Orphanage.
Day 5- July 12: To Masai Mara Game Reserve (B/L/D)
After an early breakfast, your professional driver-guide will pick us up in Kisumu at and begin a scenic drive towards the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. The journey takes us through the beautiful landscapes of Kenya, passing local villages, rolling hills, and the breathtaking Great Rift Valley viewpoints. We will arrive in the Maasai Mara area in the afternoon, enjoy lunch, and later continue with an exciting evening game drive in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and many more. After the adventure, we head to the camp for relaxation, dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 6- July 13: In Masai Mara Game Reserve (B/L/D)
After breakfast at the lodge depart with our professional safari guide for a full-day game drive in the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Today offers a great opportunity to explore the endless plains of the reserve, home to an incredible variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and large herds of wildebeests. We will enjoy exciting wildlife viewing while following different tracks across the reserve in search of the Big Five and other animals in their natural habitat. In the evening time to relax and have dinner.
Day 7- July 14: In Masai Mara Game Reserve (B/L/D)
During the migration season, we may also witness the spectacular movement of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River. A picnic lunch will be served inside the park at a scenic spot surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness.
FOR THOSE ENDING THEIR TRIP TODAY ON JULY 15
Day 8- July 15: To Nairobi and JFK (B)
After breakfast, transfer to the Masai Mara airport for your connecting flight to Nairobi and home. Scheduled arrival at JFK will be at 7:35am (NY time on JULY 16.)
FOR THOSE CONTINUING TO TANZANIA
Day 8- July 15: Leave Kenya for Tanzania and the Serengeti (B/L/D)
After an early breakfast, we will depart from the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve and begin our scenic cross-border journey south to the Serengeti National Park crossing at the Isbania Border. The drive will take approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on border formalities and road conditions, with wildlife sightings along the route. Upon arrival at the border, we will complete immigration procedures before continuing your adventure into Tanzania, with wildlife viewing en-route, as we head toward Serengeti, arriving later at our game reserve lodging for you overnight. If times permits, we will do an early evening game run.
Day 9- July 16: In Serengeti National Park. Great Migration Viewing (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we depart for a full-day game drive in the heart of the magnificent Serengeti National Park to continue exploring the endless plains and rich wildlife diversity of Central Serengeti. This area is famous for its wide range of resident animals and excellent opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and many other species in their natural habitat. Our professional guide will take us through different wildlife-rich areas, following animal movements and sharing detailed information about the ecosystem, animal behavior, and the unique beauty of the Serengeti. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush surrounded by the breathtaking African wilderness before continuing with the afternoon game drive before returning to camp for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay after another unforgettable safari experience. One of our highlights today will be experiencing the Great Migration, one of the largest herd movements of animals on the planet. The numbers are astonishing: over 1.2 million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras along with gazelles moving in a constant cycle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of nutritious grass and water. Guided by survival instinct, each wildebeest will cover from 500 to 800 miles on its individual journey along age-old migration routes. Hungry predators make sure only the strongest survive in this natural spectacle also known as ‘the greatest show on Earth.’
Day 10- July 17: To Olduvai Gorge and Karatu (B/L/D)
An early start as we depart from the central area of Serengeti National Park to begin our scenic drive toward the famous Olduvai Gorge, one of the world’s most important archaeological and historical sites, often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind.” The drive takes approximately three to four hours and on arrival we will enjoy a guided visit to the Olduvai Gorge museum and learn about the discoveries of early human fossils made by Dr. Louis and Mary Leakey. We will also have time to admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area while discovering the rich history of human evolution. After the visit and lunch break, we continue our journey to Karatu, a beautiful town located in the highlands near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive from Olduvai Gorge to Karatu takes approximately two to three hours arriving in the late afternoon at our hotel for dinner on a day that combined wildlife scenery, culture, and fascinating human history before ending with a peaceful evening in Karatu.
Day 11- July 18: In Karatu. Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive (B/L/D)
An early breakfast as we depart from Karatu and drive to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. Upon arrival, we will descend 1,800 feet into the crater floor for an unforgettable game drive in one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations, often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World. Inside the crater, we will have the chance to spot a wide variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and if lucky, the rare black rhino. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. In the late afternoon, we drive back to Karatu for dinner and relaxation at our lodge.
Day 12- July 19: In Karatu. Maasai Experience (B/D)
After breakfast, embark on a meaningful cultural and community experience as we drive from Karatu to Mto wa Mbu Town passing through scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, visit the Elisilalei Primary School, a local Maasai community school where we will have the opportunity to interact with Maasai pupils, learn about their education system, daily school life, and the inspiring efforts being made to support education in rural Tanzania. This visit 
offers a unique cultural exchange and insight into the Maasai tribe’s commitment to learning and development. After the school visit, you will proceed to an enriching Maasai cultural experience, as we explore traditional Maasai customs, dances, local homesteads (manyattas), and learn about their ancient way of life, cattle culture, and traditions that have been preserved for generations. Later in the afternoon, back to the hotel for lunch and relaxation at what has been an unforgettable cultural day that combined education, community interaction, and authentic Maasai heritage experiences.
Day 13- July 20: To Lake Manyara National Park (B/L/D)
We depart Karatu and begin a short scenic drive toward one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and compact wildlife destinations, Lake Manyara National Park. The journey takes place through lush landscapes, farmland, and the dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment. Upon arrival, we start a full game drive in the park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, elephants, flamingos along the lakeshore, and diverse birdlife. The park offers a rich and compact safari experience, making it perfect for a full-day exploration as we experience different habitats including groundwater forests, open plains experiencing the best wildlife sightings. By late afternoon, we end our exploring returning to our overnight accommodations at Lake Manyara.
FOR THOSE ENDING THEIR TRIP TODAY IN TANZANIA ON JULY 21
Day 13- July 21: To JFK (B)
After breakfast, we will transfer from our hotel to Arusha Airport for our flight to Dar Es Salem and then to Nairobi and our flight back to JFK.
Arrival at JFK will be at 7:35am (NY time) on JULY 22.
FOR THOSE CONTINUING TO ZANZIBAR ON JULY 24
Day 13- July 21: To Zanzibar (B/D)
After breakfast, we transfer from our hotel to Arusha Airport for your flight to Zanzibar. On arrival, transfer to our accommodation and dinner.
Day 14- July 22: In Zanzibar (B/L/D)
We start our day as we discover the highlights of Stone Town on a guided walking tour by strolling through the labyrinthine alleys, where echoes of history whisper from weathered walls. Witness the grandeur of the House of Wonders, a testament to Zanzibar’s opulent past. Admire the architecture of the city and learn about its history. Our tour starts at the main City market, which was opened in 1904 as we get a comprehensive view of the Stone Town architecture, its sand and stone ancient built houses, some of them have Arab/Indian with carved doors with brass studs, and carved balconies. Continue to the Old Post Office and the house where Freddy Mercury was born. Stop at the Anglican Cathedral of Christ, on the site of the Old Slave Market/Museum. From here, continue to Explore the intricacies of old Arabic architecture at the Sultan’s Palace, and marvel at its majestic beauty. See the House of Wonders (Beit-el-ajaib), and the Old Arab Fort. We finish our tour at the Forodhani Garden, at the Spice Farm, where the aroma of spices mingles with the laughter of locals. The rest of the day is leisurely to relax and shop. Dinner and overnight at our hotel.
Day 15- July 23: In Zanzibar (B/L/D)
Rest, swim, make a spa appointment, shop and relax at the deluxe beach hotel, or plan an outing for the day. 
At noon, there will be a “hands-on” cooking demonstration of local Zanzibar cuisine and a chance to enjoy the finished lunch. In the late afternoon we will enjoy the breathtaking views of Stone Town in the evening by cruising on a traditional Arabian dhow watching the Your Sunset Dhow cruise trip includes delicious locally made snacks and drinks. Return to our hotel for our farewell dinner.
Day 16- July 24: Tour Ends with flights back to New York
Transfer to the airport for our connecting flight to Nairobi and then onward back to JFK. Arrival at JFK will be at 7:35am (NY time) on JULY 25.
HOTELS, LODGES and LUXURY TENTS
Please Read the Terms and Conditions for this Tour
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.
Special NO INTEREST Payment Plan Now Available!* Body Mind Spirit Journeys now offers a “BILL ME LATER” Plan with PayPal — No Payments + No Interest if paid in full in 6 months. (Click here for details)
PRICES
PRICE PER PERSON KENYA ONLY – July 8 to 15
Per Person in Double Occupancy room:
$4,599 payments via check
$4,839 payments via credit card
Per Person in Single Occupancy room:
$399 payments via check
$419 payments via credit card
Per Person in Triple room accommodations (On Request)
Add to above costs:
U.S. airline facility security and tax charges, $699 ($755 via credit card)
Prepaid Gratuities: $125 ($129 via credit card)
PRICE PER PERSON KENYA & TANZANIA – July 8 to 21
Per Person in Double Occupancy room:
$7,999 payments via check
$8,419 payments via credit card
Per Person in Single Occupancy room:
$1,599 payments via check
$1,689 payments via credit card
Per Person in Triple room accommodations (On Request)
Add to above costs:
U.S. airline facility security and tax charges, $699 ($755 via credit card)[
Prepaid Gratuities: $200 ($210 via credit card)
PRICE PER PERSON KENYA, TANZANIA & ZANZIBAR – July 8 to 24
Per Person in Double Occupancy room:
$10,999 payments via check
$11,579 payments via credit card
Per Person in Single Occupancy room:
$12,199 payments via check
$12,319 payments via credit card
Per Person in Triple room accommodations (On Request)
Add to above costs:
U.S. airline facility security and tax charges, $699 ($755 via credit card)
Prepaid Gratuities: $250 ($259 via credit card)
OPTIONAL Supplemental Air Upgrade Costs
-Economy Comfort Class: $600 ($629 via credit card) plus tax
-Business Class on International flights from $5,800 ($6,099 via credit card) to $6,500 ($6,839 via credit card) depending on when the reservation request is made
INITIAL DEPOSIT
$1,000 ($1,050 by credit card)
Non-Refundable deposit due right away to guarantee space
Final Payment
Due on or before April 21, 2027
If you have already registered online and require access to the PayPal payment page, click here.
Travel Insurance
BMSJ highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact RMC’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance. If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.
Photo credits:
Olduvai Skull: Nachosan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
