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Maralal International Camel Derby Samburu County Cultural Festival Kenya Native Traditional Heritage Custom Musical Dancers Songs Attires Pomp Color High Octane Kenya's Most Unique Sporting Event Celebrations
The Maralal International Camel Derby is an annual cultural and sporting event held in the town of Maralal, Kenya, at the Yare Camel Camp. The 32nd edition took place from September 25 to 28, 2025.
About the event
Venue: The derby is hosted at the Yare Camel Camp, a key location for the festival's activities.
Camel races: The main attraction is a series of competitive camel races for both professional and amateur riders from around the world. Races typically cover distances of 10 km and 21 km over the region's rugged terrain.
Cultural celebration: The event showcases the vibrant culture of the local Samburu people, featuring traditional dances, music, and craft exhibitions.
Other activities: In addition to camel racing, the festival includes other sporting challenges, such as cycling races and sometimes a triathlon.
Community and tourism: The derby promotes peace-building among pastoralist groups, supports local livelihoods, and boosts tourism in the region.
Theme for 2025: The 32nd edition's theme was "Sporting for Tourism, Conservation, and Peaceful Cultural Interaction".
Recent updates and history
Post-pandemic return: The derby resumed in 2023 after a three-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent controversies: The most recent event was criticized by some for appearing politicized and not attracting as many international participants as in the past.
Former cancellation reasons: The derby was formerly halted around 2016 due to tourist complaints about animal welfare issues and has since resumed.
Travel information
The journey to Maralal is long and can be bumpy, with travel from Nairobi taking several hours. Accommodations should be booked in advance, especially during the derby when visitor numbers are high.