We came to Kenya for the first time (on 12th trip to Africa) to see super tuskers and to stay at Ol Donyo Lodge. The Lodge is located in southeast Kenya in the Chyulu Hills between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. The lodge was originally established in 1980’s , and has been owned and operated by Great Plains Conservation since 2008. The property is leased from the local Masai tribe. The lodge is both contemporary and traditional, and is quite luxurious. The views are outstanding, and include the surrounding Chyulu Hills, volcanic forests, the Kenyan savannah and, on a clear day, Mt. Kilamanjaro. And below, always wildlife!
Super tuskers are an endangered species of bull elephants living primarily in the Tsavo and Amboseli ecosystems. By definition these magnificent beasts have at least one tusk weighing more than 100 pounds, often drooping almost to ground level. Most are more than 40 years, as these large tusks take years to grow. It is estimated that less than 30 exist today. Needless to say they are the goal of poachers; a considerable effort to protect them was initiated several years ago in Kenya.
So we stayed there and we saw a super tusker and several who might become super. We arrived at a nearby air strip after a one hour flight from Nairobi. Our guide Dan loaded us into a safari vehicle and we headed across the open savannah, up a dirt road through fairly dense trees and to the lodge entrance.
The lodge has eight “rooms” – really sizeable casitas each with a large king bedroom, a huge bath with shower and tub, lots of open deck space, a pool, and star deck above and magnificent views.
The main lodge has multiple rooms including the main area with a huge deck with fire-pit, a full bar and lounging areas. There are multiple smaller rooms using for dining; we ate dinner in several different areas including a well stocked wine cellar. A great feature, accessed by a fairly long stair/walkway combination, were dual hides for watching game at a private waterhole.
The structure is wonderful. But it is surpassed by the people, the service, the food, the ambiance. We are especially grateful for the manager’s hospitality, Stella was a lovely and gracious hostess. And Carol, dear Carol, looked after us for every meal – three times a day we sat and enjoyed her Caring service.
The Carefree Photographer 