- A lodge that offers deeper safari connection
At ol Donyo Lodge, you have the opportunity to spend an evening star-gazing.
AWERO JOHNSON
Imagine yourself in a lodge where you can go star gazing and starbed sleep out under the magnificent Kenyan Milky Way while waking up to a magnificent view of Mt. Kilimanjaro hearing a herd of elephants breathing heavily at the waterhole below.
At ol Donyo Lodge, you have the opportunity to spend an evening star-gazing through a telescope before retiring to comfortable beds elegantly laid out on your open-air “star bed” – the magic of East Africa is always in the air and the african starlit sky is your last view as you drift into slumber.
Near Kenya’s south eastern border, and hidden between two popular national parks, Tsavo East and Amboseli, lies the private 275,000 acre Mbirikani Group Ranch, within which ol Donyo Lodge is delicately built amidst the foothills of the Chyulu Hills.
Africa offers some of the best spots for Safaris in the world and modern day travellers are taking advantage of it. Centuries ago, an African safari was simply characterised as a journey for those with a pioneering spirit, and with a focus on exploration and adventure.
Today’s modern travellers are looking for experiences which involve a deeper connection, one where they can get fully tuned in to nature and the environment, immerse themselves into a setting which stimulates their curiosity.
The lodge’s seclusion offers guests a truly intimate experience with nature, and a rare opportunity to be immersed in the essence of the Kenyan wilderness, whilst the extensive array of unique activity offerings provides an essential platform for those looking for a far deeper connection.
At old Donyo, you can go on a Lava Tube exploration which is overlooking the plains from ol Donyo Lodge. It is a volcanic area where streams of molten lava once flowed, and have left behind in its wake, what is thought to be the second longest lava tube.
The lava tube exploration is the quintessential activity for those who enjoy adrenalin and active adventures.
The lava tube exploration is a 45-minute drive to the lodge, and is the quintessential activity for those who enjoy adrenalin and active adventures. As you scramble down into the darkness of the tube, your most primal senses are awakened with the realisation that these tubes form a haven for a myriad of species including the more reclusive leopard, bats, owls and a variety of other species.
Mountain Biking Expeditions at ol Donyo is an exhilarating way to explore and get a good share of the adventure, and brea
Get in touch with your creative side whether out on the open plains. IMAGE/Beverly Joubert
thtaking surroundings. Using mainly hard tail Cannondale mountain bikes, you can have the ride of a life time enjoying the hilly plains. The ride is generally done on the open flood plains where visibility is good and the riding is easier.
Also, the landscape at the lodge offers a great inspiration for art. You can go on a Safari Art Appreciation journey. Get in touch with your creative side whether out on the open plains, discreetly nestled in the log hide or directly from your room.
ol Donyo Lodge has easles, canvas and water colours available for adults and children alike. Explore your own technique, while the guides at the lodge walk you through the scene’s ahead of you, explaining the different aspects of the ecosystem and touching on critical species. Nature will surely inspire you as you create your own masterpiece in this incredible outdoor studio.
Likewise, the the Horse-Riding safaris are a popular and exciting way of viewing Africa’s incredible scenery and wildlife up close and personal on horse-back. There really is nothing more thrilling than cantering alongside elegant giraffe or amongst galloping wildebeest. There is a large selection of horses at ol Donyo, all of which are well-schooled and chosen for their ability to be the perfect ride on safari. With Mount Kilimanjaro as an unbeatable backdrop, the guides will often take you through the wide open plains, game rich swamps, beautiful acacia woodlands and scenic hills. Horse-riding activities usually take place as morning or afternoon activities and there is an arena at the stables for younger riders who are able to partake in gymkhana style riding.
If you plan to travel with your spouse and you will like to renew your marital vow, you can have a mini wedding with Maasai Blessings or renewal of vows. Throughout Kenya, the marriage rituals of the communities involve warrior strength competitions, song and dance, feasting and prayers. The occasion generally takes place in a sacred place, officiated by an elder, with dancers to entertain the gathering. The scene is set as you are adorned in red or white garments over which the beaded marriage necklace sits, listening to the joyful singing of the Maasai, whilst your fiancé, in traditional Maasai regalia, participates in a jumping competition with other warriors. There is no better way to deepen your connection with each other and with the Maasai communities.
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