ol Donyo Lodge

AREA & ACTIVITIES

Habitat & Wildlife
The Chyulu’s are a beautiful range of hills lying to the north-east of Kilimanjaro. They are of volcanic origin, and at their base, several forested volcanic lava flows snake out across the surrounding plains to create a varied and interesting landscape. There are also a number of granite hills dotted across the plains which add further to the scenic experience. Although a little further away from Kilimanjaro, this region offers a far more exclusive alternative to Amboseli. The game viewing is not as guaranteed, but the scenery is stunning and the safari experience more personalised. The eastern side of the hills are gazetted as a National Park, whilst the western side comprises a Conservation area owned by a number of Maasai group ranches.

The Mbirikani Group Ranch is home to wide variety of wildlife including elephant, zebra, wildebeest, gerenuk, impala, lion, cheetah, spotted hyaena and giraffe. The birdlife is varied, with both plains and montane species resident, and night drives can be productive with sightings of serval, genet, African wild cat, caracal, aardvark, aardwolf and leopard all possible.

Activities
Activities at ol Donyo include day and night game drives by open four-wheel drive vehicles, guided walks (including exploring the local lava tunnels), mountain biking, lion tracking and horse riding (including one night fly camps for the more adventurous). There is a sunken hide at the waterhole in front of camp where elephants and other game regularly visit. The hide has been made comfortable enough to for guests who want to spend several hours there, as well as being able to accommodate overnight sleep outs. For those staying a bit longer, day trips into the Chyulu Hills (more for the scenery than for game viewing) are also possible.

Day trips to Amboseli, cultural excursions to nearby Maasai villages, the anti-poaching dog experience at the Big Life Foundation (set up by Richard Bonham to help manage the 2 million hectare conservancy), and massages are available at additional cost.

Seasons
ol Donyo is open all year round. November, April and May tend to be the wettest months.