The Bailliage of Mombasa celebrated World Chaîne Day (WCD) 2025 over two days in a unique style on safari and in the bush at Hildana Lodge, Taita Hills near Mombasa.

This event was the brainchild of Bailli Nicole Weyn who organised everything in minute detail.

In celebration of WCD bubbly flowed freely at every given opportunity!

Two game drives on each day were full of adventure with sightings of the herds of giant elephants, graceful towers of giraffes, hyena, a huge variety of gazelles, zebra, an abundance of colourful birds, monitor lizards, as well as many small creatures!

The watering hole at the Hildana Lodge gave an exceptional treat to see many animals at very close range.

After sundowners on the first night in the bush a sumptuous dinner followed which was a delight especially with the background sounds of nature and an occasional roar of the lions!

On Saturday, a very special effort was made to dress up in the traditional “Masai” attire before dinner time! This was great fun and an excellent photographic opportunity.

Dinner was served on the lawn a few metres from the watering hole which was visited throughout the evening by elephants, gazelle and zebra.

The WCD Gala Dinner menu was well paired with accompanying wines, under the stars within close proximity of wild animals.

MENU

Amuse-bouche
Smoked salmon crisps
lemon wasabi cream
La Tondrea Gabrys Rosé Brut Spumante

Appetizer
Roasted tomato and burrata crostini
Ancora Pinot Grigio

Confit spring roll
cherry-infused duck jus, sweet chilli sauce
smoked Marlin with avocado mousse
Bruce Jack Shiraz

Steamed Mussels
cherry tomato, garlic stew, garlic rubbed toast
Tussock Jumper Vinho Verde

Ostrich Wellington
creamy mashed potato, butternut puree
roasted asparagus, broccoli florets
La Clape 'Chateau Hospitalet' Rouge

Raspberry souffle
Bruce Jack Bumblebee Moscato

A magical Chaîne dinner experience would be an understatement as words cannot express the joy of sharing an excellent meal in this unique environment!

Shabnam Nayer
Bailli Délégué
Member of the Conseil Magistral