River Cottage Credit: Albie VenterBrand new luxury cottage 2018
El Karama is an intimate, award-winning eco lodge specialising in family and group safaris in Laikipia, Kenya. An owner-operated environment known for our charm and authenticity, we have been recognised as a leader in Sustainable Travel in Kenya and are located on a private 14,000 acre working ranch. The habitat and biodiversity are exceptional and restult in world class wildlife experiences including 4 of the Big 5. Only 1 hr from the Nanyuki airstrip and 5 minutes from the private ranch strip for charters, this lodge is the most accessible wildlife lodge in the region. The lodge comprises just 8 beautifully designed and constructed cottages of varying size and character. Guests can enjoy Kenya's first natural swimming pool and stunning communal areas for dining and relaxing. As the only lodge on this private property within Laikipia, an unusual level of privacy is offered to guests. We welcome families of all ages and work hard to offer tailor-made experiences as much as possible. Activities include: guided walks, fly camping, Kenya's first 'Bush School' for kids, farm and organic garden tours, game drives, night drives, interactive anti-poaching and wildlife monitoring activities, bush meals and rock hide outings for photographers and birders... Perfect for families with children and groups traveling together who love wildlife, birds, photography and adventure!
Rooms
Units
Facilities
Our brand new, exclusive use private house is named after the indigenous tree specie "Acacia Nilotica', which we are passionately regenerating here inside the conservancy as part of our positive impact initiatives.
This stunning private house is our most beautiful creation yet: located adjacent to Main Lodge, this exclusive use area offers luxury, privacy and big views of this landscape and wildlife at close quarters.
From December 2024, Nilotica will have four separate cottages sleeping up to 10 pax, the house is perfect for families and small groups looking for that extra level of privacy and comfort. It offers a sprawling wooden breakfast deck on stilts overlooking the river and landscape beyond, a natural Eco Smarte swimming pool, a brand new Pool House with a dining area, fireplace and relaxed seating and a bar for cocktails.
The hidden fire pit outside is sandy underfoot with lantern surrounds, perfect for star gazing and fireside stories.
An active salt lick and waterhole have been made just outside the fence attracting wildlife including elephant, zebra, bush buck and buffalo throughout the day and out in full view of the pool and relaxation area.
Features:
Cottage 1: The Family Suite: two large inter-connecting bedrooms sleeping ideally two adults and up to four children with a shared ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet, this large cottage also has a gorgeous outdoor bathroom with a shower, toilet and sink combination for overflow use!
Cottage 2: one large double or twin bedroom cottage, with enough space to add a child's cot or 2 small beds, with an ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet, a beautiful private veranda and outdoor swinging chairs overlooking the river
Cottage 3: one large double or twin bedroom, nearest to the Pool house and overlooking the waterhole and the river
Cottage 4: the last cottage and the one with most privacy, this one large double or twin bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet and water hole and river views
Communal areas: Breakfast deck on raised decking for early morning chai and serene bird watching, wrap around stone verandas and decking connecting the areas. Private, chemical free pool with big views over the river and salt lick/water hole, spacious bathroom nearby and a large Pool house with a bar, dining room and comfortable seating next to the fireplace for cocktails, reading and board games
Outdoor sandy fire pit cocktails and star gazing by the open fire
Private team
Private Game drive car and Guide
Private Wifi throughout
An Exclusive use part of camp for it's extra space, privacy and own wifi.
Cottage 1 is a large and airy double or twin room, with veranda looking out over a stunning glade with the river on the left where hippos bathe. The spacious, light room has his and hers bathroom, plenty of storage in beautiful hand carved shelves and hanging racks, end of bed ottomans and luggage racks and an outdoor tub for candle lit baths under the moonlight.
As with the other river cottage, this one has a writing desk facing the river, hand carved furniture and hand printed curtains and artisanal soft furnishings from the region.
There is also a large veranda for reading and star gazing, take your early morning tea overlooking your own private stretch of river and salt lick attracting elephant, giraffe and other wildlife.
Offering more privacy and comfort, we are excited to introduce these two beautiful new cottages to our guests. Ideal for honeymooners / 2 couples traveling together or even a family with older children who seek more luxury.
This cottage has a large his and hers bathroom with a huge bath looking out to the bush and a double shower that includes space and built in seat for clients requiring additional assistance or wheel chair access.
There is also a large veranda for reading and star gazing, take your early morning tea overlooking your own private stretch of river and salt lick attracting elephant, giraffe and other wildlife.
Wifi in the rooms. Private Car with this part of camp, no shared vehicle.
The two river cottages can be used either as an extension of the lodge or as a small, private camp for two couples friends/families travelling together.
To make this work for exclusive bookings we have included a stunning private dining room, living room, bar and outdoor fire pit under the shade of huge fever trees. It has a completely different feel from the main lodge and is ideal for couples travelling together, honeymooners or special family trips where privacy is of the utmost concern.
The dining room has a large table fitting 8-10 people, a cosy living room area at one end with a small fireplace and a bar at the other end for cocktails and sundowners. Tucked away behind the dining room is a lovely kitchen for cooking on site and a restroom so that guests do not have to go back to their rooms to find that convenience.
The outdoor area in from of the dining room has two grass levels and an open fire pit where we hold bush dinners under the stars, drinks by the fire and we also use our mobile BBQ oven so that we can cook over the embers with our guests. Food being such an essential part of our trips and experience, this is a great addition!
Wifi in the rooms. Private Car with this part of camp, no shared vehicle.
These charming bandas have a spacious central room with a double bed/ twin set up, a shaded seating area for reading and relaxing, furniture for storing/hanging clothes and an ensuite bathroom with large river stone baths and overhead showers.
Bandas have their own verandas for reading and star gazing. All look directly onto the river and a salt lick attracting wildlife all through the day.
The bandas are have thatch roofs, stone and canvas sides and are lovingly decorated with cosy soft furnishings, hand carved cedar beds and hand picked wild flowers, paraben free soaps and toiletries.
All have 24 hour electricity that runs on solar energy, with overhead lighting, reading lamps and outdoor veranda light for easy entry at nighttime. Hot water systems are very effective and solar driven ensuring hot water at all times of day. No wifi in these bedrooms, only in public areas like the pool. Great choice of digital detox or couples on a slightly lower budget.
This cottage is large, two storey and is designed for maximum family fun! It has two bedrooms: the master bedroom has a large double bed fit for a king and queen, two small tree house floors with single beds for children over 8 years up some carved steps and a spacious living area with a sofa and armchairs and writing desk.
The second bedroom is smaller with two twin beds (double adaptation too) and a round glass window for game viewing. The bathroom is spacious with a river-facing rock bath and a separate shower. There is a lot of additional space outside this cottage for kids to run and explore.
Private car for any family over 4 pax in this cottage. Wifi in this cottage.
There is a large veranda and playing area outside with a swinging chair for reading under the shade of the trees and outdoor furniture for lounging and early morning coffee moments! Private dining and private fire pit can be set up for families who want to be close to their sleeping children.
We have 3 different dining areas: 1 overlooking the river and 2 overlooking the swimming pool. Both are open under thatch, informal, relaxed and built with beautiful fallen wood including nilotica and cedar and giant bamboo.
All our food is fresh, organic, hearty, clean and mostly home-grown in our beautiful organic garden here on the property - we offer farm tours and picking mornings for families with kids and any interested guests. We also have a small dairy at the farm that allows us to provide fresh farm milk and milk products made in our kitchen. We cook all home made breads, desserts, pastries and pastas. We can adapt our menus to suit all dietary needs and we also produce kids food and can adjust the timings of meals for family groups. We have our own Cook Book : The Bush Kitchen: Notes and Recipes from the Wild, written by the owner Sophie Grant, published in 2022.
We have a state of the art open kitchen, for guests to come and watch the food being prepared, bake bread with us and learn about our recipes.
Bush meals are also a big highlight and our bush breakfasts and dinners out in the bush are very special.
The relaxed, bush home feel translates to our eating style - a mix of French, Italian and meditterrean influences. We also offer the option when possible of offering private meals or separate dining areas and tables whenever guests prefer this. Our aim is to offer as much flexibility as possible.
Our swimming pool is pioneering in its environmentally responsible technology and voted the best in Laikipia by our clients and the Daily Nation newspaper! Laikipia's hidden gem.
It does not use salt or chlorine, but rather a copper based deionising system to kill bacteria. Like our whole lodge this pool is chemical free and runs on 100% solar power. We are the first in Kenya to use this Eco Smarte technology but others are following suit.
A fantastic place to relax in the heat of the day, bird watch as the aloes and acacia trees surrounding the pool attract several varieties of sunbirds and finches, this is one of the most popular places within the lodge for groups, couples and of course families with children!
The main pool is 12 m long so perfect for swimming laps or just having fun and there is also a two tiered baby pool for small children and parents to relax in shallower depths.
The pool has a lush lawn irrigated by recycled grey water and two swinging armchairs, 1o wooden carved sunloungers, multiple areas for lounging and relaxing, two areas for eating with open fire places and plenty of space for having private meals at night under the stars.
There is also a bar, an adjoining bathroom and changing room for convenience and beautiful decor including paintings by Lavinia Grant, as in the main lodge.
El Karama Wild is a pop up seasonal Bush Camp experience available in certain months for exclusive use of up to 8 pax sharing in 4 bedroom tents. Mobilisation only when there are bookings.
A beautiful and stylish bush camp that pops up in the best spots during some dry season months, this adventure experience is ideal for walkers, peace seekers and those looking to completely switch off and immerse in the wild.
4 tented bedrooms with long drop toilet set up and bush showers 1 large tented living area for reading and relaxing 1 dining shade for eating meals by the river 1 wild fire pit for sundowners 1 open game drive car for 8 pax
This camp is exclusive use only, seasonal and requires a 4 adult minimum charge to set up.
Completed in April 2018 and a brand new higher end addition to our lodge, the Little River Camp is designed as more private and luxurious set of villas. For guests who like to retreat and relax away from the bustle of the main lodge environs, these two brand new, luxuriously decorated and designed cottages have their own space and their own private dining room and kitchen to cater for them. Nestled on the river and with direct views of private salt licks, hippo pool and the wildlife beyond the fence and river.
Perfect for honeymoon couples or adult couples traveling together who want to be by themselves for some meals, this Little sister to the main lodge is the next step in privacy and comfort.
Two cottages both with large ensuite bathrooms both with showers and his hers sinks: one cottage has an outdoor bathtub for romantic, star light bath time and the other has a larger bathroom with an interior bath for luxuriating.
The dining room has beautifully constructed bar with stools, a dining table for indoor or outdoor dining, a cosy fireplace corner with sofas and reading materials and a fire pit outside for starlight sundowners and BBQs.
A new private house set slightly apart from the main lodge with it's own private access, sleeping up to 8 pax. Perfect for families or small groups wishing to share but with additional privacy and luxury.
Cottage 1:
2 interconnecting bedrooms perfect for families sharing. Bedroom 1 is the Master Bedroom, with a large double or twin bed set up, a lounging area, writing desk, storage area for hanging clothes and unpacking luggage and a beautiful shared bathroom with two sinks, a large shower, flushing toilet and plenty of space and storage.
The Second bedroom is large enough for 2-4 beds, ideal for kids, two writing desk areas, storage area for lounging and a sprawling wooden deck that connects to the dining room making evening meals hassle free and safe for movement in between when needed.
Additional outdoor plunge tub and shower overlooking a salt lick with wildlife.
Cottage 2: a large and spacious double or twin room with plenty of space to add a bed and/or cot for additional children if needed. Patio and Veranda for reading and private moments to relax. Ensuite bathroom with beautiful shower, sink and storage areas and flushing toilet. Exceptional Privacy and space.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Business Centre, Communal Dining, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access (Paid), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Cooking Facilities, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fireplace, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Beginning as a small safari cottage built by two third generation families, Mara House is one of three ‘Mara Bush Houses’, private bush homes in the heart of the Masai Mara.
The three bedroom Mara House sits on the private Mara North Conservancy; shared by only 11 properties, the 70,000 acre conservancy is home to abundant year-round game viewing and allows guests to explore the wilderness on night game drives and guided bush walks. The perfect family home in the bush, Mara House offers extensive children’s safari activities, a shared swimming pool as well as views over the waterhole from the spacious verandah.
Units
Facilities
Activities and Services
Inside Mara House, you’ll find an open-plan dining room and lounge with a log fire – perfect for when the temperature takes a slight dip in the evenings. The House has three en-suite bedrooms - a ground-floor bedroom with a shared bathroom, and an attic room that’s ideal for kids. The House also has a private outdoor verandah and a shared pool area with Acacia House.
Though not hosted, Mara House comes with a full team, including a chef, house manager, room stewards, waiters and your own private guide.
AMENITIES: Private verandah| Shared swimming pool area| Children of all ages welcome| Wi-fi| Laundry service| 24hr security| Wake up service| Organic soaps and lotions| Water dispensers| Umbrellas| Hangers| Bath robes
Located in the north of the Mara North Conservancy, Mara House overlooks the famous Ol Chorro waterhole and is 5 minutes’ walk from its neighbour – Acacia House.
Inside Acacia House, you’ll find an open-plan dining room and lounge with a log fire – perfect for when the temperature takes a slight dip in the evenings. The House one double room with en-suite bathroom, one attic room and a double room on the ground floor with a shared bathroom. The House also has a private outdoor verandah and a shared pool area.
Though not hosted, Acacia House comes with a full team, including a chef, house manager, room stewards, waiters and your own private guide.
AMENITIES: Private verandah| Shared swimming pool area| Children of all ages welcome| Wi-fi| Laundry service| 24hr security| Wake up service| Organic soaps and lotions| Water dispensers| Umbrellas| Hangers| Bath robes
Located in the north of the Mara North Conservancy, Acacia House overlooks the famous Ol Chorro waterhole and is 5 minutes’ walk from its neighbour – Mara House.
Inside Dik Dik House is an open-plan dining room and lounge with a log fire – perfect for when the temperature takes a slight dip in the evenings. The House has one ensuite bedroom and one twin bedroom with a shared bathroom, a private outdoor verandah and a shared pool area.
Though not hosted, Dik Dik House comes with a full hospitality team including a private chef, house manager, room stewards, waiters and private guide.
AMENITIES: Private verandah| Shared swimming pool area| Children of all ages welcome| Wi-fi| Laundry service| 24hr security| Wake up service| Organic soaps and lotions| Water dispensers| Umbrellas| Hangers| Bath robes
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pool
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Room Service (24 hours)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris
Guests can enjoy morning, afternoon and all-day game drives through renowned and teeming conservation areas: Mara North Conservancy and Lemek Conservancy; two fantastic habitats for African wildlife. We also highly recommend night game drives in Mara North Conservancy, when nocturnal species can be encountered. This is a unique activity not permitted in the National Reserve. Game drives are included in the nightly rate. Our lodge managers will assist you in planning your stay with us, day by day, upon your arrival.
Enjoy breakfasts along the Mara River and in secluded valleys or sundowners, a well-deserved drink at the end of a long day on safari to ‘salute’ the African sun as it is setting. We drive you to secret corners and on top of the highest peak in the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem and serve you your favourite drink along with a selection of scrumptious ‘bitings’; small snacks to whet your appetite ahead of the delicious dinner which awaits.
The culture of the natural guardians of this land is both complex and fascinating. There are few that would deny they are one of the best-known tribes in Africa and it is with good reason that does not purely stem from the game rich plains they roam. The concept of encouraging our guests to experience this wilderness and its people on their own terms very much extends to exploring the world beyond the animals and the scenery.
Time spent with your guide and his community is often the most rewarding aspect of a visit to this world and we believe it is the best way to take as much or as little from their culture as you would like.
We visit only villages, communities and trading centers that are part of our team’s home life. The results are that you are well received and made to feel very welcome as you explore this extraordinary culture and they get to know a little about you.
In 2009 the judges of the prestigious Responsible Tourism Awards recognised the on-going achievements in this complex arena. We welcome all our visitors to explore our work and to get involved as much as possible with our vision of protecting and enhancing this very ancient and magical people.
If you have an interest in birds or just enjoy seeing the colourful ones, our passionate and knowledgeable guides would love to show you what the Mara ecosystem has to offer. With almost 500 species of resident and migrant birds including 57 species of raptors, from the lush forested hills to grass plains and waterways, you will not be disappointed. We carry field guides in the vehicles and would recommend a pair of good binoculars.
Located in the Ol Chorro Conservancy, about 30 min. from both Mara Bush Houses, this is a conservation project employing staff from the local community that has been protecting white rhino for the past 20 years. Rhino roam freely on the slopes of the mountain and the unique attraction of this project is approaching the rhino on foot in complete safety, whilst guided by a local ranger. The visit costs US$30 person that goes back to the community and to the Sanctuary directly in their efforts to protect this endangered species.
PAYABLE EXTRA: Imagine seeing the beauty of the Mara and witnessing the vastness of the annual natural phenomenon that is the Great Migration from above. This once in a lifetime experience gives you a unique perspective of the beauty of Africa as it awakens. Starting just before dawn you will enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea whilst the crew inflates the balloon and then set off just as the sun has risen, drifting across the plains, forest and Mara River you are sure to spot a myriad of animals whilst being basked in the early morning glow of sunrise. The air current in the Masai Mara is said to be one of the best in the world meaning that you glide effortlessly and silently being able to observe animals in their natural habitat without them even knowing that you are there. Drifting wherever the current takes you, you will finally land where a welcoming champagne breakfast is served on the plains and then take a leisurely game drive back to your lodge.
PAYABLE EXTRA – NATIONAL RESERVE RIVER CROSSINGS: From July to October-November (depends on the year), the world famous ‘Great Migration’ reaches the Masai Mara ecosystem from the Serengeti when over 2 million animals – zebra and wildebeest (‘gnu’) are the most prominent – head north and cross the Mara river (“the river crossings”) in huge herds to search for water and fresh grass. The biggest misconception, however, is that the migration is only about the river crossing. Driving through the plains during this period, guests bear witness to thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebra; a truly astonishing sight. This far-reaching vision also makes up the ‘Great Migration’. It’s the greatest natural show on earth. If guests wish to try their luck at witnessing a river crossing (it’s not guaranteed), the costs involved are exclusive use of vehicle at US$350 per day and daily conservation fees to enter the Masai Mara National Reserve apply (if the crossing happens within this area).
In the most serene, relaxing environment, guests can treat themselves at the Maasai Wellbeing Space at Mara Bush Houses. Our specially-trained team combine expertise and ancient Maasai knowledge to provide soothing treatments as you listen to the sounds of the outdoors. Manicures, pedicures, body/foot massages and facials are just a few of the many treatments we offer. For a complete listing, contact our Reservations team in advance or lodge manager upon arrival. The Maasai Wellbeing Space is open 07:00-19:00 daily or unless by prior arrangement with the therapists. Bookings can be made through the therapists, your guide or any of our staff.
COMPLIMENTARY MASSAGE: We are delighted to offer a 1 x complimentary massage per room per stay; a 30 mins. classic Back and Neck massage.
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Alfajiri Villas | Diani Beach
Stunning lunches And relax.............
The lounge Lounge with a view!
Garden Villa veranda and barView from the garden
This Italian jewel, comprising three glamorous villas overlooking the exquisite Diani beach, is a memorable place to stay. The individual villas with private swimming pools – Beach Villa, Cliff Villa and Garden Villa – were created and are hosted by the Molinaro family. With delicious cuisine and outstanding service as their hallmarks, hosts Marica and Fabrizio plan individual daily itineraries for their clients. Enjoy the magnificent view and swim in the pool, walk on the ten kilometre-long white sandy beach, go snorkelling on the edge of the coral reef, explore the local craft markets, play golf at the nearby 18-hole course or visit the elephant sanctuary. Alfajiri really is a luxurious boutique destination.
Rooms
Units
Facilities
Garden Villa Rooms
Garden Villa is perfect for a couple, two sets of friends or a small family, this villa boasts incredible space and privacy. Ideal for families with children and honeymooners looking for the ultimate in privacy and service.
Up to 10 guests can be accommodated in 4 large luxuriously appointed bedrooms, each with their own large bathrooms, and all overlooking the Indian Ocean. All rooms are air conditioned with mosquito nets (3 double rooms and 1 twin). An extra bed can be added in the twin room and also in the double room on the first floor.
All rooms have different interior decoration, but are the same size, so Gadren Villa is ideal for 4 couples travelling together or a large family.
Garden Villa
Garden Villa is perfect for a couple, two sets of friends or a small family, this villa boasts incredible space and privacy. Ideal for families with children and honeymooners looking for the ultimate in privacy and service.
Up to 10 guests can be accommodated in 4 large luxuriously appointed bedrooms, each with their own large bathrooms, and all overlooking the Indian Ocean. All rooms are air conditioned with mosquito nets (3 double rooms and 1 twin). An extra bed can be added in the twin room and also in the double room on the first floor.
All rooms have different interior decoration, but are the same size, so Gadren Villa is ideal for 4 couples travelling together or a large family.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available)
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, En-Suite, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Verandah