Giraffe Manor | Nairobi
12 Jun 2014 - 14 Jun 2014
Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi. This elegant, personally hosted hotel is famous for its herd of resident Rothschild giraffe who visit morning and evening, poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat. With its stately façade, elegant interior, verdant green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards, Giraffe Manor offers a rich blend of comfortable accommodation and highly trained and friendly staff. It is the only place in the world where you can enjoy the breathtaking experience of feeding and photographing a giraffe over the breakfast table or at the front door.
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Giraffe Manor Virtual Tour
Front facing in the main manor. Double room with fabulous 1930s décor, in-room fireplace and en-suite art deco bathroom with bath and shower over the top of the bath. Access to a beautiful roof top terrace. Superior Room.
Overlooking the back gardens from the main manor. Two large single beds with overhead canopies, en-suite shower room and access to a beautiful roof top terrace. Superior Room.
Front facing in the main manor. Twin queen size beds with beautiful silk covers, in-room fireplace and en-suite bathroom with shower and bath. Space for 3rd bed/cot for a child on request only. Superior Room.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Shower, Twin Bed
Side facing in the main manor. Please note that this is a very small double/twin room with a small en-suite with shower. Standard Room.
Room Facilities
Balcony , Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed
Back of the main manor. Double bedroom with exquisite decor and large en-suite bathroom with shower. Standard Room.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Queen Bed, Twin Bed
Accessed from the formal garden, ground floor with double bed and a mezzanine with twin beds (suitable for children only as 6ft long with footboard) accessed via spiral staircase from the main ground floor bedroom, en-suite bathroom with shower and bath, separate loo. This suite is accessible for wheelchair users. Superior Suite.
Garden Manor. Double/Twin room with en-suite shower and bath. Superior Room.
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bath, En Suite Bathroom, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Twin Bed
Garden Manor. Double/Twin/Triple room. Three single beds and in-room fireplace with en-suite shower and bath. Superior Room.
Garden Manor. Double room only, en-suite bathroom with both shower and bath. Superior Room.
This is a twin room located in the Garden Manor. This room has its own private balcony overlooking the famous breakfast room.
This double room is located on the ground floor of the Garden Manor and has its own veranda. The room is en-suite with a bath and shower and it also has a day bed that can fit a child less than 12 years.
Garden Manor. Accessed from the ground floor beside the dining room. Double bed and mezzanine with twin beds (children only as 6ft long with footboard) accessed via spiral staircase from the main ground floor, chill out area below the deck, in-room fireplace, en-suite bathroom with both shower and bath. Superior Suite.
Property Facilities
Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Fireplace, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Activities on Site
Boules, Fine Dining, High Tea, Massages
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Cultural Tours, Game Viewing, Helicopter Rides, Horse Riding, Museums, Safaris
Share your breakfast with the giraffe popping their heads through the window.
A traditional afternoon tea at the manor is a delightful occasion not to be missed. Relax in the tranquil gardens with a giraffe or two in view, as you enjoy a tasty assortment of cookies, cakes, sandwiches, scones and fruit platters. There will be plenty of opportunities to feed and interact with the giraffes during this experience and the team are adept at helping everyone snap the perfect photo memory.
Included in your stay at the Manor is access to the AFEW Giraffe Centre, which is a gentle stroll across the front lawn of the house. The centre has some interesting back ground information on the rare Rothschild Giraffes and also a small nature trail that can be good for stretching your legs.
Glide through our 21 metre infinity pool which looks out over the giraffe sanctuary. Our lovable herd of Rothschild’s giraffes are able to wander up to the end of the pool, so you might have a long-legged spectator or two! The poolside deck with sun loungers is a lovely space for relaxation and listening to the birdsong floating down from the surrounding trees.
Unwind after a long journey or at the end of an exciting safari adventure in our soothing spa area complete with a traditional sauna, steam room and bubbling hot tub for you to enjoy. You can also utilise the fully equipped gym that looks out onto the garden and has everything you need for a full-body workout.
The Retreat’s spa offers a range of massage and beauty treatments designed to restore your body’s natural balance and soothe away your stress. We use products by Healing Earth, a premium organic brand inspired by ancient African healing traditions.
For the creative lot, head to the orchid house and make use of our easel, canvas and paints.
Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi where you can adopt a baby elephant and see them feed from a bottle. You can adopt an elephant for US$ 50 (for two people) and visit them at 5 pm where you’ll see your baby put to bed. Or you can go at 11 am when the orphanage is open to the general public and pay a US$ 7 donation. Both experiences are very special. Transfers from Giraffe Manor are included at no extra cost.
Snuggle up inside next to the fire in the evening and sip on a zingy dawa whilst settling down for a game of chess.
Boules and croquet are on hand at Giraffe Manor and kids can dodge the resident warthogs while challenging each other to a few rounds of these classic garden games.
Daisy’s Café is located at The Retreat, our wellness centre right next door to Giraffe Manor. Here you’ll find a vibrant menu of freshly prepared snacks and meals as well as a fully stocked bar. Our expert chef loves to use nutritious, locally sourced ingredients (many of which are grown in the veggie garden) to create nourishing farm to fork style dishes. Dine al fresco in the leafy surroundings of our garden terrace, or under the vaulted ceilings of the café. All food and drinks consumed at Daisy’s are charged as extras to Giraffe Manor guests and are payable direct or can be added to your room bill.
Step back in time at the Karen Blixen Museum. Once the farmhouse of Baroness Karen Blixen, the museum provides guided tours of the beautifully serene grounds and gives you a sense of the style of Karen Blixen’s home with a number of original pieces of furniture still in place. Entrance into the museum is KES 800 or US$ 12. Open 9am to 6pm. Transfers from Giraffe Manor are included at no extra cost. & Visit the Nairobi National Museum for an education in Kenya’s wonderfully rich heritage. After which you can enjoy the Museums botanical gardens and something to eat or drink from the restaurant/food hall. This activity takes up half a day. Transfers can be included in a half day hire of a vehicle and driver. Five hours costs US$ 180 – for anything less than five hours please ask for a quote as we can be flexible. An entry fee of KES 1200 or US$ 14 is payable directly to the museum. Open 8.30am to 7.30pm.
MATBRONZE ART GALLERY & FOUNDRY
Matbronze Art Gallery & Foundry features a display of over 600 hand cast bronze sculptures by wildlife artist Denis Mathews. From tiny lion cub paw prints to life sized crocodiles, the sculptures are impressive and fascinating to look at in their accurate representation of a diverse range of Kenya’s wildlife. There is also an art gallery exhibiting a selection of local artists and a delightful garden café serving delicious homemade snacks and meals.
CIRCLE ART GALLERY
African art is hitting the global art scene in a big way. The Circle Art Agency is Nairobi’s premier modern art gallery and offers a fantastic outing for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We recommend pre-booking your visit. Avid art enthusiasts can also book a private appointment to visit the gallery if the opening times are unsuitable, although this must be booked in advance and is subject to availability.
GoDOWN ARTS CENTRE
A fun art studio to visit exhibiting a range of artwork in different media from local artists, including fine arts, block print, etching and palette knife painting. There are currently five artists in residence who you can meet, each of whom create, exhibit and sell their work from here. If there is a particular artist you would like to meet, then we recommend you call ahead of time to ensure they’re available during your visit.
SHOPPING IN NAIROBI
Indulge in a little retail therapy and discover some of our talented local artisans. Shopping in Nairobi is fun and we know exactly where to find all manner of locally crafted goodies right on our doorstep. From beaded leather belts and sandals to beautifully carved wooden bowls, jewellery, traditional masks, woven baskets, Maasai blankets and more. Here’s our pick of the best local shops for finding unique gifts and goodies to take home:
KOBE TOUGH
Formerly known as Kazuri Beads, Kobe Tough is just a stone’s through away from the manor and offers great free factory tours to see exactly how their ceramic beads are produced. There’s a shop selling their handmade jewellery and beaded leather goods, all of which supports single mothers, widows and orphans in Kenya.
LANGATA LINK SHOPS
Just five minutes from the manor, here you’ll find a collection of shops all under one roof selling a range of jewellery, homeware, clothing and more, including the bright designs and extremely popular Kenya Kanga products! It’s become a local hangout with a great café and small children’s play area.
UTAMADUNI
This collection of Kenyan curios (souvenirs) has everything you could want all under one roof, from fridge magnets to magnificent beaded masks. Just ten minutes away from the manor for a quick trip, although easy to get lost in for hours.
OCEAN SOLE
This is a brilliant social enterprise that upcycles old flip-flops found on beaches and waterways in Kenya by making them into unique and functional art pieces. It aims to raise awareness of the state of our oceans and visits to the shop enable a glimpse behind the scenes at how their brightly coloured flip flop art is crafted.
HOUSE OF TREASURES EMPORIUM
Slightly further than those listed above, but still within half an hour’s drive from the manor, this is another collection of local shops with two eateries frequented by Nairobi residents. Here you’ll find a range of home décor and household accessories, as well as a small bronze sculpture gallery.
GIRAFFE MANOR SHOP
If you prefer to maximise your time at the manor, we have our own Giraffe Manor Shop on site with a range of carefully selected, unique items all handmade by talented local artisans. There are also several nearby shopping malls with large supermarkets, pharmacies and other shops for those that need.
This iconic park is the only national park within the limits of a capital city. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife including lions, leopards, buffalos, zebra, antelopes, giraffe and over 400 species of birds. Once inside the park, it really does feel like you have left the city behind. Sunset over the Ngong Hills and vast vistas stretching down over acacia-dotted plains are evocative of the spirit of Africa. Although fenced on three sides, the 117 square kilometre park is open to the south and teeming with wildlife.
Giraffe Manor has one open sided 4 x 4 vehicle for game viewing in Nairobi National Park. This is bookable on an exclusive basis only for single groups of up to six guests checked-in at Giraffe Manor or The Retreat. We recommend pre-booking to ensure availability, as the vehicle cannot be shared with other guests.
Please note that game drives cannot be combined with arrival or departure transfers. If you would like to visit the park outside of check-in times, we are very happy to help you arrange a private vehicle and guide for your Nairobi National Park experience.
Share the most important meal of the day with the most unique guests only at Giraffe Manor.
Enjoy afternoon tea on the front lawn as the sun sets behind the Ngong Hills.
This an a la Carte restaurant located at Giraffe Manor's Retreat. Whilst all meals are included in stays at Giraffe Manor and will be served in the manor's dining room or terrace, Daisy's is available for guests to visit at any time should they wish to do so and anything ordered here is a payable extra. The seasonal menu uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to make nutritious dishes bursting with flavour. Many of the ingredients are grown in the organic veggie garden on site. Guests might like to enjoy a freshly squeezed juice or signature smoothie after a spa treatment or post-workout.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Sala's Camp | Masai Mara
14 Jun 2014 - 17 Jun 2014
Sala’s Camp is a tented camp that combines tradition with comfort and is a model of understated, intimate luxury. It is situated in the southern, wilder corner of Kenya’s mighty Masai Mara game reserve close to the confluence of the Sand and Keekerok Rivers – an idyllic geographical feature that attracts teeming wildlife. Sala’s Camp's location is a big draw, close to Tanzania with wonderful views of the Serengeti National Park, it is one of the first camps in the Mara to witness the legendary annual migration of wildebeest, which thunders by from June to September each year. Sala’s Camp also offers the best of the Masai Mara’s wildlife and birdlife year round. Having first hosted guests in 2004, it has become renowned for combining an authentic safari experience with hospitality and fine dining. Sala’s Camp is owned and operated by The Safari Collection, and can be booked for the night or as part of a complete tailor-made safari.
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Sala's Camp
Our Sala’s Double Tents include Tent 1 which is also known as the Keekorok Honeymoon Safari Tent and Tents 4, 5 and 6 are spread out along the riverbank next to our Sala’s Honeymoon Tent which is Tent 7.
Whilst they are all subtly different in design, they each have the same amenities and tranquil natural surroundings with views across the Sand River and into the Serengeti. The seclusion, sumptuous nature and incredible outlook of all our double tents make them the perfect choice for a honeymoon safari. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead out onto either a patio or a wooden deck, with space for intimate star-lit dining if desired. Private plunge pools and wooden decks allow for total relaxation in the soothing green surroundings of nature.
Room Facilities
Dressing Gowns, Ensuite, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Plunge Pool
The Keekorok Family Tent, also referred to as Tent 2, is located on the corner where the Keekorok and Sand Rivers converge and is reached by crossing a small footbridge over the Keekorok River. The space boasts two roomy en-suite bedrooms, interconnected by a communal lounge area. This communal space forms the main entrance and is perfect for groups to relax in or even enjoy a private dining experience in if they wish. An enormous 108 square-metre wooden veranda spans the whole tent and provides a spectacular relaxation deck. Here you’ll find a private plunge pool, sunken seating, deck chairs and a hammock, all south facing, looking out across the Sand River and into Tanzania beyond.
The Keekorok Family Tent can sleep up to six guests in a variety of layouts, depending on requirements. Both rooms can be doubles, twins or triples. Alternatively, the central lounge area contains a double sofa bed and can be separated by sliding doors to become a third bedroom. The two spacious en-suites each contain rain showers and free-standing copper bathtubs with fabulous views out into the wilderness.
Room Facilities
Laundry Service (Complimentary), Plunge Pool
The Forest Family Tent consists of one enormous open-plan room with a bedroom at either end. The two sleeping areas are divided by an open-plan lounge area in the middle with a small wooden screen for separating each end if desired. Both bedroom areas have their own ensuite bathrooms with rain showers and flushing loo and one also has a bathtub. A small grassy area shaded by trees makes a great space for little ones to play in front of the tent.
The Forest Family Tent can sleep up to five guests, each end of the open-plan room able to be configured as a twin or double, with an additional fifth bed upon request. A large veranda spans the length of the tent and a private deck is located a stone’s throw away beside the Sand River with views looking south into Tanzania. Here there is a private plunge pool and day bed, plus a sunken seating area and fire pit.
Exclusive use of game drive vehicle is included for all guests staying in the Forest Family Tent.
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Plunge Pool, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Massages, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching
Sala’s is the first camp in the Mara to witness the phenomenal movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra and other antelope, which move year round on a circular migratory route in the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Guests staying between July and October might be lucky enough to catch the animals thundering by. Watching a river crossing is a tense and thrilling spectacle and will bring you face to face with the brutal reality of mother nature. Do check dates before travelling if you don’t want to miss this, as timings vary each year depending on when the rains begin.
The anticipation and excitement of setting off in a 4 x 4 to explore the African bush is what being on safari is all about. The area around Sala’s Camp is teeming with diverse wildlife and Sala's fleet of professional guides are eager to tell guests about the plants and animals they come across. Guests staying longer might wish to venture further into the Mara and head out for the day with a picnic lunch. Each game drive vehicle is specially designed to ensure maximum game viewing and comfort. Kitted out with Maasai blankets and ponchos to keep warm, sunscreen, fridges filled with cold drinks, hot drinks, books and sweets, there's everything to keep you happy during a game drive.
During the dry months, the sandy riverbed in front of Sala’s Camp turns into a perfect volleyball pitch as well as the ideal place for a game of boules. Sala’s Camp has everything you need for both games. There are no hippos or crocodiles to worry about in the area, so enjoy unleashing your competitive side.
Sala’s Camp has a small, but well-equipped gym for guests to use at their leisure and really work up an appetite for the scrumptious cuisine!
Each tent also has a ‘gym-in-a-bag’ for guests to use during their stay, containing a yoga mat, skipping rope and post safari stretch card with some simple exercises to relax the body.
Each tent has a paint set and sketch pad for guests to use during their stay. Get creative in the camp’s idyllic, artistic surroundings and paint the unique scenery, wildlife, flora and fauna.
Sundowners are an essential part of any safari experience and there really is nothing better than watching the African sun sink low on the horizon over the vast animal filled plains of the Masai Mara. The fabulous vintage mobile bar at Sala's (named Eleanor) adds a special touch to the sundowner experience here. Fully stocked with everything needed to make cocktails, mocktails or whatever the drink of choice, plus delicious canapes to nibble on, it makes for an unforgettable evening spent in nature.
From a secluded shady corner of camp, or from the comfort of your own room, indulge in one of our therapeutic treatments. We use spa products by Healing Earth, a premium organic brand inspired by ancient African healing traditions.
Soaring high over the savannah on a sunrise balloon safari is a truly unforgettable and magical experience. Glide silently above the plains and spot wildlife as you experience 360 degree views as far as the eye can see. Balloon rides are particularly magnificent during the migration, when you will witness millions of animals grazing on a green carpet below you. Please refer to our rates sheet for the latest ballooning costs which include a champagne bush breakfast.
Join your Masai Guide for an exploratory amble around the camp environment. This gentle stroll is a great way for both adults and children alike to stretch their legs in-between game drives. You’ll be surprised by just how many smaller creatures and birds there are to spot around camp. It’s also fascinating to learn about the traditional uses of some of the plants and trees you’ll come across. Children might like looking for wildlife tracks, finding feathers and learning to identify different types of animal dung! If you are staying with us for several days and would like to go on a longer walk outside of camp, there is an area in the reserve approximately an hour away where you can amble along a small gorge of the Sand River.
Our guides and spotters love taking younger guests under their wing, helping them become enthralled by the wild. They might enjoy spotting the ‘little five’ and the ‘ugly five’ on game drives or finding animal tracks with their guide on a nature walk around camp. The shallow sandy riverbed in front of camp is ideal for little ones to splash about in during the wet season or dig around and spot animal spoor when it’s dry. Budding warriors can learn how to make a Maasai bow and arrow or how to make a fire using traditional techniques. Evening activities might include roasting marshmallows and making popcorn around the fire or searching for glow worms and frogs by torchlight. The camp is well-stocked with a selection of board games, including Scrabble, Kumiliki (African Monopoly), Chess, Liar Dice, Backgammon, cards and Mancala.
Setting off before sunrise offers the best chance of exciting wildlife encounters, and being able to eat a scrumptious, freshly cooked breakfast whilst doing it is even better! Sala’s vehicles are specially fitted out with stoves for freshly cooked bush breakfasts so you can enjoy eggs, omelettes and pancakes cooked to order whilst soaking up the incredible scenery.
Sala's team of chefs are renowned for their delicious, vibrant and nutritious lunch time platters. Enjoy a selection of stunning dishes with ingredients picked fresh from the organic kitchen garden. Dining takes place in front of the main mess tent, where it is not uncommon to see wildlife wondering past on the opposite bank of the river, so game viewing might continue over lunch!
At certain times of the year (and weather permitting) the Sand River next to Sala’s Camp is dry and we can set up a candlelit dinner in the riverbed. Enjoy a yummy barbeque prepared by our chefs whilst listening out for nocturnal wildlife.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fast Facts
Camp
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 7
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
ol Donyo Lodge | Chyulu Hills National Park
17 Jun 2014 - 20 Jun 2014
ol Donyo Lodge is located on the Maasai-owned Mbirikani Group Ranch, a vast expanse of wilderness between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks, bordering Chyulu Hills National Park. This stunningly beautiful area is incredibly diverse, and often has spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Eight pool suites plus one two-bedroom family suite offer a harmonious blend of contemporary and rustic accommodation, merging the landscape into each suite. Designed for broad appeal, the lodge is a perfect getaway for families, honeymooners or multi-generational groups. What makes it a standout is its notable variety of activities – from good quality wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking – ol Donyo Lodge is a place to feel Africa, and get out from behind the wheel. Add to this the lodge’s creature comforts of fine dining, spa treatments, infinity pool, star beds and multiple lounges, and it is a place to relax and unwind for days.
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Deluxe Pool Suites
No two of the lodge’s suites are exactly the same, but what is consistent is the view of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the lodge’s famous waterhole as well as star beds atop each of the suites for sleeping under the stars. The décor is luxurious and opulent, while still retaining the atmosphere and sense of place that is an essential ingredient of an outstanding bush lodge. Art from around Africa coupled with the photography of Carol Beckwith, Angela Fisher and of course Beverly Joubert, create a commanding space under the high thatch roofs. The design is contemporary and yet traditional.
All suites have a lounge, indoor and outdoor showers, double washbasins, flush toilet and bath, and “star-bed”. The rooftop “star-bed” is accessed from the verandah via a winding stone staircase. This is a fabulous sleep-out option, with utter privacy and all the amenities of the suite just below.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed
2 Bedroomed Sambu Family Suite
The Sambu Suite functions as a bush home intended for families or groups of friends. This 2-Bedroom Family Suite is purpose-built and designed for a couple who want space and seclusion or for parents who require their children under the same roof but with adequate space and privacy. It has two bedrooms under one roof and one swimming pool. Each bedroom has its own spacious en-suite bathroom, complete with an indoor and outdoor shower, "star bed" and sundowner viewing deck.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Bar, Eco Friendly, Kiddies Club, Library, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Fireplace, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Cycling, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Horse Riding, Massages, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, Mountain Biking, Safaris, Wine Tasting
Strong populations of wildlife find their habitat in and around the ol Donyo Lodge environs. While the "Big Five" are here - rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo - they are often elusive; however, cheetah, fringe-eared oryx, gerenuk, and giraffe make for frequent viewing. Guests are able to track wildlife by open safari vehicles, as well as by foot, or horseback (described below). The best times to be out are from first light for the morning drive, and from 4-4:30 pm for the afternoon drives. These are the times when most of the action is likely to happen. Night drives give you the opportunity to discover a range of unusual and nocturnal animals and view the breathtaking African stars. These drives commence after dinner service at approximately 9:30 pm. Please remember that the vehicles are open and it can be quite chilly in the early mornings and evenings, so take very warm clothing with you on your drives. There are also shukha (blankets) and lined ponchos provided in the vehicles if you get cold while out.
With 275,000 acres of open plains and the dramatic, ancient volcanic soil Chyulu Hills to explore at ol Donyo Lodge this vast region provides a truly unique riding experience. Riding is available all year round at no additional cost.
RIDE OPTIONS
INTERMEDIATE AND ABOVE
For Intermediate riders and above we offer 2 to 4 hour rides exploring the concession. Enjoy exhilarating medium to fast-paced canters and encounters with our famous big Tuskers.
For this riding option, you need to be riding fit, confident and competent, ride with an independent seat and be able to control an easy horse at all paces over uneven terrain.
PLAINS RIDE
Novice riders can enjoy a gentle 60/90 minute ride exploring the open plains.
All riders will need to have a short assessment in our arena prior to setting out to ensure all guests riding out can control their horses and are comfortable at a short trot. If riders do not have the required experience they will be offered a lesson in the arena instead. Plains riders will be given some instruction, a minimum requirement is a short trot.
Another huge benefit of staying outside national parks is that here we are allowed to appreciate the stunning landscape around us on foot, peacefully without the noise of engines. The Chyulu Hills were designed for walking and hiking. We highly recommend this unforgettable experience. Our resident tracker will accompany you and your guide and will carry a firearm. Your guide and the lodge managers will be able to suggest different walks depending on fitness and your interests, such as birding, spelunking, or exploring the plains. Each is a voyage of discovery unveiling secrets of the bush, wildlife movements, medicinal plants and uniquely adapted flora and fauna. Wear good walking shoes, a hat and camouflage-coloured clothing so as not to alarm the wildlife, and take binoculars. Your guide will have water for you.
This is a good opportunity to exercise but also another way of viewing the landscape and wildlife in the area. We recommend cycling during the cooler hours of the day, either in the early morning or late afternoon. Cycling usually takes place on the plains heading toward the kopje or el Mau.
Just below the lodge’s main area is our famous ‘log-pile’ hide named as such because of its elaborate and impressive interwoven construction. A short walk with a cool drink in hand, and you’ve arrived at a secret shaded spot from which to view the many mammals that come in for a drink. This is a tremendous experience, especially during the midday siesta.
Our proximity to Amboseli National Park gives the opportunity for full-day excursions to the park. Guests depart the lodge after breakfast for a leisurely drive across the plains and through small villages. We usually arrive at the park in the mid-morning and depart in the mid-afternoon (with a picnic lunch and a full selection of drinks). We have selected this time of day as it coincides with the time when the guests from the other nearby larger lodges are on siesta, and vehicle density is at its lowest. This is also the time when the elephant and plains game congregate around the waterways and marshes in high density. This excursion can only be guaranteed in advance, please book it at the time of reservation and is subject to additional cost.
ol Donyo Lodge is the ultimate family safari destination. The Young Explorers program is designed to enhance both a child's and a family’s overall safari, weaving themes of conservation and culture into each fun activity with the intention of giving children tangible examples and moments to bring back to their peer group. The future of conservation is, after all, in the hands of these young ambassadors.
We offer a full range of activities from bush survival skills including making sling shots, bows and arrows and creating fire using traditional Maasai techniques, to watercolor painting and so much more.
FITNESS
- Yoga mat, and light weights available in each suite;
- Stationary exercise bikes:
- Guests can enjoy a run/walk on the airstrip.
A helicopter is available, and guests can enjoy 180-degree views with a choice of aerial scenic tours. These include viewing the Chyulu Hills, Amboseli, and Mount Kilimanjaro from the air. In addition to the scenic tours, guests can also visit Amboseli to explore this area with a Great Plains guide and safari drive as well as reserve helicopter transfers from Nairobi to our Mara-based safari camps or Nairobi and ol Donyo Lodge.
As part of our offering at ol Donyo Lodge, a complimentary 15-minute helicopter flight is included, providing an amazing overview of the region, subject to availability. One flight per stay, with a minimum stay of two nights required.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Saruni Samburu | Kalama Conservancy
20 Jun 2014 - 23 Jun 2014
Saruni Samburu sits in Kalama Conservancy, bordering Samburu National Reserve. 200,000 acres of unspoiled northern Kenya wilderness that belongs entirely to the community who have called it home for generations. As one of the two only lodges here, your access to this landscape is as exclusive as it gets.
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Our family villas are designed with the understanding that every family travels differently.
One of the villas offer separate entrance and can be booked as a complete private unit or as individual spaces. When taken separately, the seclusion is absolute, each entrance leads to its own world, with no reason to cross paths unless you choose to.
The other is designed as a single, flowing family home; one entrance, generous shared spaces, and a natural rhythm that suits families who want to move through their days together.
All open onto incredible views, large bathrooms with private outdoor showers, and a wonderfully unhurried living area, equally suited to quiet afternoons and private dinners under the northern sky.
It is a large house with one en-suite bedroom joined by a spacious living room and verandah. It has a very unique character and style and blends beautifully into its surroundings. With its outdoor shower, private dining and living room and interesting design, it makes for an exciting and memorable stay. It is a short walk away from the main dining area, the bottom pool and Samburu Wellbeing Space.
The Honeymoon villa has one bedroom and a spacious living area and verandah. It has been reviewed as the room with the most beautiful view and possibly the most amazing room in Africa. Built onto the edge of a hillside around the natural rock formations, it makes you feel as if you are on top of the world. The panoramic views of the wilderness below are enjoyed from the elegant bedroom and verandah.
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fridge, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided)
Guests can enjoy morning, afternoon and all day game drives through renowned and teeming conservation areas; Kalama Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve, two fantastic habitats for African wildlife. We also highly recommends night game drives in Kalama Conservancy, when nocturnal species can be encountered. This is a unique activity not permitted in the National Reserve.
Meals at Saruni Samburu are rarely confined to a dining room. Breakfast finds you along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, and as evening falls, dinner moves to a dry riverbed beneath a sky so full of stars it feels almost implausible.
Then there are the secret spots our team have quietly claimed over the years for bush dinners and picnic lunches where the wildlife simply carries on around you. Elephants, waterbuck, lion, impala, and the Samburu Special Five stopping to drink, entirely unbothered by your presence. It's the kind of meal that makes conversation pause.
Saruni Samburu offers guests a unique experience for Kenya: access to an elephant-proof, open ground level hide based at a waterhole, where from both novice and professional photographers can photograph wildlife from ground level. Designed with the needs of photographers in mind, buried partially underground, located a few steps from a waterhole: the perfect spot for 'stealing' amazing images of what occurs at the well-frequented waterhole. It can have up to 8 guests inside, it has maps and books available, and bean bags for photographers. The waterhole at Saruni Samburu offers a unique opportunity to spot from very close up the elephants that come and drink its water, the fantastic birds species and the 'Samburu Five.' Being in the middle of an arid area, the hide also provides excellent opportunities to photograph from ground level and from very close up the predators of Samburu.
Walking safaris are individually tailored to guests' interests and are set in a breath-taking landscape. Walking with the Samburu warriors out in the African bush is a fantastic experience and guests learn from their authentic local knowledge of the plants, animals and landscape, about their traditions and about their lives. Having discovered Samburu rock art in several caves nearby the lodge, we include a visit to these extraordinary archaeological sites during the bush walks.
We run the Samburu Wellbeing Space in the most serene and relaxing environment, guests enjoy massage and wellness treatments under the supervision of highly trained staff. The techniques combine sophisticated methods developed at Centro Benessere Stresa with ancient Samburu wisdom and knowledge. The Spa therapists use the Olmurmuru seedas (Albizia Harvey) to reduce muscular discomfort and pure gel from Usunguru (Aloe Kedongesis) for sun burnt areas. Among the treatments available, guests can choose between the lymphatic drainage massage, decongestive or nourishing or purifying facials, manicare, pedicare and the popular sport massage. All with an open view of Kalama Wildlife Conservancy, where elephant and giraffe and other animals roam freely.
Should it get too hot up on the hot rock, and most times it does, guests have the option of relaxing and taking a refreshing dip in not just one but two infinity pools! The upper infinity pool is located high on an impressive panoramic view point near to villas 5 & 6. The spectacular lower infinity pool is situated close to Kudu House (main communal area) on a rocky formation.
For those who find as much joy in a rare bird sighting as in a lion encounter, Samburu delivers. The species here are abundant, often out in the open, and for photographers especially, wonderfully cooperative.
Our guides are birdwatchers by both instinct and training, with a genuine passion that makes itself known the moment a new species appears on the horizon. Field guides are always to hand in the vehicle, but more often than not, it's our guides' own knowledge that gets there first.
The sundowner is a well-deserved drink at the end of a long day on safari to ‘salute’ the African sun as it is setting. Our guide's drive guests to an unforgettable panoramic viewpoint and serve guests' favourite drink along with a selection of delicious ‘bitings’; small snacks to whet appetites ahead of the delicious dinner which awaits.
The Warriors Academy is a special interactive safari experience with a strong educational flavour, designed especially for families with children or small groups. It is a fun learning experience, that allows families to explore not only the wildlife, but also the authentic lifestyle of one of the most well-known and culturally fascinating tribes left in Africa; the Samburu. Under the tutelage of their ‘Moran’, or warriors, participants get to know, enjoy and understand these unique people and see the Kenyan wilderness from a different perspective.
Our safaris are not only focused on wildlife but also on culture and people. Some call it ‘cultural tourism,’ we calls it ‘meet the neighbours’. Guests visit genuine Samburu villages - the lodge's neighbours and friends, and are privileged to share moments of their life. They are the ancient custodians of this land and we feel it is an integral part of the overall experience for guests to see how they live, how they protect the environment and in what way they differ from other African tribes. Be prepared for the Samburu to ask questions too as they will be curious about life outside of their way of life! Consider it an exchange of ideas and information.
Located in Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy in Samburu County of Northern Kenya, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is the first community owned and managed elephant sanctuary in Africa. The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is situated in the remote Mathews Range, among Kenya’s second largest elephant population. Similar to the world-famous Sheldrick Sanctuary in Nairobi, it takes in orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with the aim to release them back into the wild herds adjoining the Sanctuary.
Saruni Samburu is the perfect place if guests want to be part of an unusual but very genuine Samburu wedding ceremony. The experience can be enjoyed either by newlyweds who want to re-affirm their vows in the middle of a very spiritual land or by those who plan to actually get married in Kenya. The ceremony takes place in a Samburu village, with the participation of the elders, the women and the warriors, or on the top of a mountain overlooking the endless landscape.
Opening up a wider journey through northern Kenya for those who want to venture further. From the ancient slopes of Mount Kenya to the remote shores of Lake Turkana and everything that lies in between, our team will help you shape an itinerary as expansive or as unhurried as you'd like.
As part of the guided bush walks, guests can also visit nearby mountain caves where, hundreds of years ago, the Samburu have drawn hunting scenes and animals in what the experts call ‘white rock art’. The caves evoke a past when the Samburu were mostly pastoralist warriors.
Mount Ololokwe is the Samburu tribe’s sacred mountain. It is a pillar of cultural significance to the Samburu and an exciting trekking venture to many others. Setting off at dawn, our professional guides will accompany guests during this day’s excursion to the summit (with picturesque pit stops for breakfast and lunch) teaching guests along the way about the mountain, its cultural significance and all of its wonders.
Not all of Saruni Samburu's wildlife announces itself. For those curious about what lives just beneath the surface, our scorpion safari offers a fascinating after-dark glimpse into a world most guests never think to look for. Guided by our team, you'll discover the surprising variety of scorpion species that make their home in the earth surrounding the lodge, each one a small masterpiece of adaptation to this arid landscape.
When the sun drops below the Kalama horizon, a different kind of spectacle begins. The skies above Saruni Samburu unpolluted, unobscured, and elevated on the ancient hot rock upon which the lodge sits reveal a depth of stars that stops even the most seasoned traveller in their tracks.
Pull up a chair. The night up here has a way of making everything else feel very far away.
Cuisine
"Tell me what you eat, I'll tell you who you are", famously said gastronome Anthelme Brillat-Savarin. At Saruni we believe in the importance of good, healthy and tasty meals. Our cuisine has a strong Italian flavor but we also love to experiment with the great ingredients that are found in Kenya, especially fish and vegetables. We easily accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free (you name it) and guests who have special requests. Food can be tailored to suit children’s requirements and earlier meal times can be arranged where necessary. Some options include but are not limited to the usual ‘treats’: pizza, plain pasta or pasta with tomato sauce, chicken or burgers with chips etc.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fast Facts
7 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
The Sleeping Warrior Lodge | Lake Elmenteita
23 Jun 2014 - 25 Jun 2014
The Sleeping Warrior Lodge is located in Soysambu Conservancy, the central Rift Valley, near Lake Elementaita and Nakuru. The lodge is set on top of a volcanic hill overlooking the Sleeping Warrior Crater, offering stunning views over the plains into the distance.
The lodge has the best vantage point to enjoy the spectacular wildlife Nakuru has to offer, including the chance to see both black and white rhino. Set in the 48,000 acre exclusive Soysambu Conservancy to the east of Lake Elementaita.
Soysambu Conservancy features volcanic hills, rolling plains, and dense acacia woodlands. The Conservancy also includes a substantial part of Lake Elementaita, the home of over a million flamingos and their attendant cast of pelicans, cormorants, waders and storks. Within the shelter of the crater, large herds of buffalo wander and within the acacia thickets graze the rare Rothschild's giraffe. Across the plains bound an ever-shifting kaleidoscope of other game from waterbuck to zebra. Long protected from the impact of mass tourism, the Conservancy also provides sanctuary for a wide range of predators, including the shy and secretive leopard.
The Sleeping Warrior Lodge is a great location from which to enjoy this stunning area, with views that will continue to amaze. The 10 widely spaced bungalows are designed to maximize these spectacular views, and allow you to soak in the splendour of the African bush in the highest level of comfort and privacy. Our heated horizon pool is a great place to relax and watch the world go by.
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Featuring luxurious Queen-sized beds ,a day bed,
, a private terrace overlooking L.Elementaita and Soysambu conservancy, each room has its own colour scheme and has been named after the fabulous birds that flit around the individual gardens.
Featuring luxurious King-sized bed , a relaxing suit with an outside bathtub just for two, you have your own private terrace ovelooking L. Elementaita and soysambu consevancy.
A family unit featuiing two adjoining rooms, one with a queen size bed and the other with two single beds, and a living area is perfect for families, you very own private terrace overlooking L.Elementaita.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Kiddies Club, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Lounge Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle, Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Massages, Safaris, Tennis Court, Walks
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Mountain Biking, Safaris
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fast Facts
Lodge
andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge | Mnemba Island
25 Jun 2014 - 29 Jun 2014
Exclusive yet unpretentious, andBeyond Mnemba Island is an award-winning bare-foot beach paradise just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. Be among just 20 guests at this romantic, private hideaway where ten beachside bandas overlook a pristine coral reef teeming with an abundance of tropical marine life. Drink a fruit cocktail or dine under thatch by the white sands. Romantic candlelit dinners can be served to you on the beach as waves lap at your feet. From snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming and kayaking to massages on the beach and simply doing nothing at all, andBeyond Mnemba has something for everyone.
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andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge
&BEYOND Mnemba Island offers 11 rustic palm-frond Bandas tucked into a tropical forest fringed by a white coral sand beach. Relax and unwind on your own stretch of beachfront.
Mirroring the spiralling form of the nautilus seashell, each Banda enthuses tranquillity. Opalescent colours with dusty pink hues are elegantly framed, paying homage to the ocean’s precious coral. Cultural traditions infuse understated luxury, with locally sourced brass, marble, ceramics, and Omani antiques, creating a vibrant space immersed in natural elegance.
Each Banda also has its own private Beach Lounge, complete with a comfortable day bed, sun loungers and al fresco shower.
*Maximum two guests per Banda
Alongside the comforts and elegance of a regular Banda at &BEYOND Mnemba Island, the island’s exclusive Family Banda boasts an additional smaller ensuite room perfect for children. Curated as the ideal space for an unforgettable family island escape, this spacious haven offers the perfect balance between shared bonding moments and essential privacy.
Mirroring the spiralling form of the nautilus seashell, the Family Banda enthuses tranquillity. Opalescent colours with dusty pink hues are elegantly framed, paying homage to the ocean’s precious coral. Cultural traditions infuse understated luxury, with locally sourced brass, marble, ceramics, and Omani antiques, creating a vibrant space immersed in natural elegance.
The Family Banda also has its own private stretch of beachside and Beach Lounge, which comes complete with a comfortable day bed, sun loungers and al fresco shower.
*Maximum two adults and two children per Family Banda
Property Facilities
Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Library, Mobile Connectivity, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fridge, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Room Service
Activities on Site
Beach Drop Off, Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Fishing, Garden Tours, High Tea, Kayaking, Massages, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Beach, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Fishing, Fly Fishing, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, Kayaking / Paddling, Marine Adventures, Marine Tidal Pool, Natural History Tours, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Sea Kayaking, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours, Windsurfing
Snorkelling is ideal for those who do not wish to do a scuba diving accreditation but who want to confidently explore the shallower coral reefs, situated off Mnemba Island, with the help of a snorkel. A guided snorkelling course is also available at an additional cost, offered by andBeyond’s Mnemba Island specialist dive masters, and covers safety procedures, equipment, currents and suggested snorkelling spots.
Mnemba Island has a fully stocked dive centre, and offers a full range of diving activities. If you are experienced, our Dive Instructor will guide you on fantastic dives around the Mnemba Atoll. If you are a beginner, our Instructor is waiting to introduce you to a whole new world of mystery, wonder and beauty! Additional costs apply
The Dive Centres at Mnemba Island offers a full range of PADI-accredited courses for those looking to advance their diving qualifications.
PADI BUBBLEMAKER & DISCOVER SCUBA
This introductory diving course is perfect for little ones or adults who are keen to explore the fascinating underwater world of diving, facilitated by experienced, multilingual professionals.
MANDATORY REFRESHER DIVER COURSE
This course is mandatory for any diver with less than 25 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last six-months, or any diver with 26 – 100 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last year (12-months).
PADI OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
Learn to scuba dive independently in buddy teams to a depth of 18 m (59 ft). This four-dive course takes three to four days, where upon conclusion, guests will receive a lifetime global certification.
PADI ADVANCED OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
This dive course only applies to already certified Open Water divers. After successfully completing five dives, the course will certify divers to dive down to a maximum depth of 30 m (98 ft).
SINGLE TRAINING DIVE & ADVENTURE TEST
This is ideal for those who would like to try specialised dives, such as deep dives and drift dives. This course will be credited towards your Adventure Diver or Advanced Open Water diver certification.
Explore the warm Indian Ocean waves in utter tranquillity in a deep sea kayak built for two. Ask one of Mnemba’s Dive Instructors for a quick tutorial session or set off with your partner on the quiet waters protected by the island’s surrounding reefs. Paddle along the beach to admire the changing features of the shoreline or head out into deeper waters in the hope of encountering a pod of dolphin or some sea turtles.
Enjoy an unforgettable experience on the calm Indian Ocean waters on a stand up paddle board. Get a few tips from our expert instructors before grabbing paddle in hand and mounting the board to head out into the waves. Ideal for the calm waters off Mnemba Island, this activity allows you to glide effortlessly through the waves while enjoying exceptional views of the ocean waters and the Mnemba horizon. Watch as dolphin frolic nearby, play in the waves and guide yourself through graceful turns.
Channel your energy, balance your chakras, and increase your self-awareness against the backdrop of
the pristine ocean during a yoga class. Skillfully adapted to accommodate all levels of experience, daily group yoga classes can be enjoyed in the Wellness Banda on the yoga deck, along with other restorative healing sessions such as singing bowl meditation.
*Private yoga sessions can be arranged at an additional cost.
A soothing treatment using the Healing Earth Pinotage Relax Oil. to restore and rejuvenate body and mind. Bringing relief to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. 30min | 60min 45min | 90min
Give in to the lure of total isolation and pretend that you are marooned on a deserted island, albeit one where your personal butler is perpetually on hand to cater to your every desire! You may catch a fleeting glimpse of your fellow guests as you lounge in the tropical sunshine in your private beach sala or take a leisurely walk around the island. But you can also choose to make the most of your solitude with a private dinner in a secluded forest clearing or enjoy the light-hearted intimacy of a sandcastle dinner set to the sound of the waves gently sighing on the shore.
Families and groups will fall in love with the tranquility of the island. We will only accommodate a maximum of two children under 12-years at Mnemba Island at any given time. Travel to Zanzibar is recommended for children eight-years or older.
ACTIVITIES
Children visiting the lodge can take advantage of the fun-filled and interactive WILDchild programme thatoffers various activities such as:
• Morning walks with turtle monitors to observe turtle nests
• Assist with replanting trees in the island indigenous tree nursery, learning about the various vegetation types that grow in and around the island
• Join the lodge chefs to welcome the local fishermen onshore and check where the catch-of-the day is on the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) List
• Assist the Community and Conservation (CNC) Rangers with building coral bases to plant coral
• Learn about the incredible impact initiatives in and around the Mnemba Atoll in the Ocean Without Border’s (OWB) interactive centre
• Get involved in the dive centres helping the OWB staff
• Go snorkelling along the coral reef
• Help in the OWB staff input new and exciting sightings in the Beyond Sightings platform, while learning about the various sea creatures
• Go on beach and nature walks around the island
• Hand-line fishing from a dhow or the beach
• Enjoy sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding
• Bake turtle biscuits with the lodge chef
CHILDMINDING
While we don’t have trained childminders, we can offer the services of certain staff members who are wonderful with children. This will be at an additional cost.
Whether you're sailing through calm waters or tackling a bit of surf, Hobie provides an range of adventures for those keen to explore the warm waters surrounding the island.
SEA KAYAKING – HOBIE MIRAGE TANDEM ISLAND KAYAK
Offering a tandem seating arrangement, allowing for two paddlers to share the fun, this unique kayak is designed with stability and ease of use in mind. Ideal for both beginner and experienced kayakers, its sleek design and pedal powered system makes paddling effortless. Its versatile sail also enables kayakers to harness the power of the wind for a more leisurely journey.
SAILING – HOBIE 14 RACE CATAMARAN
An exciting and accessible sailing experience for everyone, with its sleek and aerodynamic design, this catamaran is built for speed. Its lightweight construction, simple rigging system and responsive nature, featuring two hulls connected by a trampoline, allows it to glide effortlessly over the water.
PEDAL BOARDING – HOBIE ECLIPSE MIRACLE PEDAL BOARD
Combing the fun of paddle boarding with the ease of pedalling, pedal boarding offers a new way to traverse the ocean. Standing on a stable platform, using your legs to pedal instead of your arms to paddle (like riding a bike on water), the board’s sturdy structure and user-friendly handlebars for balance and steering, makes pedal boarding easy for everyone for enjoy.
Enjoy the unforgettable experience of watching green turtle hatchlings as they find their way out of their sandy nests and crawl to the ocean.
This excursion begins with guests meeting for sundowners and an introduction to nesting, tag data, weather and the challenging factors hatchlings face. We discuss why &Beyond nurtures these hatchlings and how we help to deter predators, gather data to observe how effective &Beyond Mnemba Island is as a nesting site and how we allow them a more natural start to their journey.
Only one in 1 000 make it to adulthood and it takes roughly 20 years or more before they reach sexual maturity and can start reproducing.
Learn about turtle etiquette, the sensitive ways the turtles are approached, and the conservation aspect: it has taken two decades of dedicated research and monitoring to make this conservation experience possible.
Hatching is a year-round possibility that generally peaks between February and March; however, as hatchings cannot be guaranteed, this experience is not available to pre-book.
Private, personal and participative; this half-day experience offers you the opportunity to explore local village life beyond the crowds on Zanzibar Island and interact with transformative education* and healthcare community projects. You will be hosted by Wild Impact, &Beyond’s long-term community and conservation development partner; for over 25 years &Beyond and Wild Impact (formerly Africa Foundation) have worked together with Zanzibari partner communities and other stakeholders on projects supporting education, healthcare, enterprise development and marine conservation.
This one-to-two-hour interactive island experience promises a fascinating glimpse into significant conservation efforts on &Beyond Mnemba Island and the behind-the-scenes workings that come with it. You’ll witness the dedication of the marine rangers and staff members, gaining an insight into the island’s delicate ecosystem. This land-based island experience is ideal for non-divers and must be booked in advance (can be booked once on the island). Subject to availability of the Oceans Without Borders (OWB) and marine ranger teams and weather dependent.
Imagine helping to build a living masterpiece that thrives beneath the ocean’s surface. On this interactive half-day experience, you’ll play a pivotal role in enriching the underwater world around Mnemba Island through the creation of your own unique coral frame and nurturing its growth. It’s important to be aware of the challenges facing coral reefs. By participating in this experience, you’re not just helping to restore the reefs around the island; you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the threats these delicate ecosystems face and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
*All proceeds go toward Wild Impact OWB programme
Your Stay
4 Nights
Fast Facts
Other
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Star Gazing, Watersports, Wildlife, Wine
