Ol Donyo Lodge Kenya

Ol Donyo Lodge Kenya

Ol Donyo Lodge Kenya
:
Feb 23
62°F / 17°C



Where the Chyulu Hills stretch out to meet the plains of Kenya's Amboseli, a private wilderness unfolds where time seems to stand still…
Perched on a log at ol Donyo Lodge, I sat wrapped in the sounds of the wilderness, elephants rumbling a stone's throw away. It was almost meditative. I joked about swapping the usual spa music for this natural symphony during a Great Plains massage when suddenly, I felt an elephant gently tap my leg with its trunk. In that moment, the magic of ol Donyo Lodge came alive, reflecting the essence of safari moments that stay with you forever.

The Lodge

On the Mbirikani Group Ranch—a sprawling expanse of wild Africa owned by 4,000 Maasai and bordering the Chyulu Hills National Park—ol Donyo Lodge is a testament to the fusion of contemporary design and rich Maasai culture, setting the stage for an unforgettable Kenyan safari. Nestled in over 111,000 hectares of private land straddling Kenya's Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks, ol Donyo Lodge is carved from ancient lava rock from Kilimanjaro. The property, perched on a hillside, offers panoramic views of East Africa’s classic savannahs stretching out towards Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, timelessness isn't just a feeling—it's palpable in every stone and vista.

Lodging in the Lodge

The lodge features 8 Deluxe Suites and a two-bedroom Sambu Suite, perfect for families. Each suite at ol Donyo Lodge is a portal to the soul of East Africa. With views over the plunge pools and across to Kilimanjaro, the suites’ star beds offer a night under the stars, where you can drift off to the sounds of hyenas and lions prowling in the distance.

Gourmet Dining

Being part of the exclusive Relais & Châteaux group, ol Donyo Lodge is committed to exceptional dining, wine selection, and service. It’s not just about seeing wildlife; it's about experiencing the 'Great Plains Conservation style'—a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and a warm welcome that makes you feel like part of the family.

Breathtaking Experiences

The lodge offers a range of experiences from horseback safaris to mountain bike treks, guided walks, and open vehicle drives, each designed to immerse you in this untouched paradise. Guided safaris, whether on foot, by bike, or on horseback, open up the conservancy in ways only a few ever experience, returning to exceptional meals prepared by our Executive Chef.

The newly enhanced sunken hide by the waterhole is a standout feature, offering guests the rare opportunity to spend a day, or even a night, in close communion with the wild, watching as animals come to drink under the cover of darkness.

Community Support

Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains Conservation, emphasizes the lodge’s role in community and conservation efforts. “Our partnership with the community extends beyond lease payments to support teachers and scholars, and our projects in wildlife conservation and tourism are designed to uplift our communities.” He adds that the tourism dollars spent at ol Donyo help fund collaborative conservation efforts, boasting success stories with lions, cheetahs, and the iconic bull elephants—one of Africa's last large tuskers.

African Horse Safari

Our stables are home to a diverse herd of 20 horses ranging from 15.1hh to 17.1hh, including majestic Friesian and Shire crosses, spirited Arabians, and the robust South African Boerperd. Selected for their calm demeanors, endurance, and adaptability, our horses are the ideal companions for your safari adventure, well-schooled and acclimatized to the wildlife we share our home with. Strap in for a pulse-racing African horse safari at ol Donyo Lodge, where the untamed landscapes of Africa unfold beneath the hooves of our trusty steeds.

Gear up for a 2 to 4-hour ride exploring the breathtaking terrain that surrounds ol Donyo Lodge. Perfect for those with a bit of experience, these rides feature exhilarating medium to fast-paced canters that get your heart racing as you come face-to-face with the region’s famous big Tuskers. To join, you'll need to be riding fit, confident, and capable of handling an easy horse across varied and challenging terrains. If you're less experienced, opt for our gentler 60 to 90-minute rides across the open plains. Ideal for novices, this experience offers a serene way to soak in the vast landscapes on horseback, with a bit of instruction and a short trot to get you comfortable in the saddle.

Great Plains Conservation is setting new standards with its camps and lodges in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. Our Africa specialists, Elisabeth and Henry Jedelsky, were invited to Kenya and met two African celebrities. Read the Story >>



Dream with Us

More of our fantastic Camps in Kenya

More of our fantastic Camps in Kenya
Mara Expedition Camp
Mara Plains Camp
Mara Toto Tree Camp


Please feel free to contact Great Plains Conservation at:

Website Great Planes Conservation Lodges & Camps

General contacts: info@greatplainsconservation.com

Phone & WhatsApp: +27 (0)87 354 6591 or +27 (0)78 048 5543.