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Ol Donyo Waus Safari Lodge

7 days - Nairobi to Nairobi

Ol Donyo Wuas lies in the foothills of the Chyulu Range, halfway between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks on a concession of communally owned Maasai land, known as Mbirikani Group Ranch, which is also part of the Amboseli eco-system. The open plains, rolling hills and the snow topped Kilimanjaro invoke images of Africa as it was in the earlier part of the last century. Wildlife and Maasai herdsmen live, as nature determined they should, in this unspoiled corner of Kenya. Ride Kenya has a lease agreement with the Maasai people, giving it exclusive access to the ranch.

As this ride is centre based, it is ideal for small groups of mixed riding ability, including parents with children. Rides are divided into groups of similar ability but guests are often able to enjoy private rides .Any number of nights can be arranged for those who wish to stay at Ol Donyo Wuas and ride out on a daily basis, starting with three nights as our suggested basic minimum. The itinerary shown below is for six nights at the lodge. For those who wish to spend some nights at the lodge and other nights out camping, this is easily arranged. Riders (and their non-riding companions) staying at the lodge are able to enjoy any activity, which the lodge has to offer, including game drives and walks.

Day 1 (L,D)
Depart Nairobi and take the Safarilink scheduled flight to the Chyulu Hills. This is a 45 minute flight. When you land in the Chyulu Hills you will be met by your guide and driven to Ol Donyo Wuas Lodge. For the next 6 days you ride daily from the lodge with an experienced guide. This gives you an opportunity to ride a different horse each day, or if you wish, or stick with your favourite. Each day you can set out in a different direction to explore the various ecosystems that the Chyulus have to offer, from the mist forests or lava flows to the dusty plains. The terrain is varied, with plenty of opportunity for long canters on the open plains, jumping logs or fallen trees and also some more technical riding up and down the hills. You will get the chance to view plenty of game, and explore the whole ranch, seeing also Maasai people in their traditional environment. All of this is with a backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 3 to Day 6 (B,L,D)
At Ol Donyo Waus. The length of the rides themselves can vary from two to about five hours. Some days you may choose to do two shorter rides, in the morning and also the evening, with lunch at the lodge and a chance to swim or siesta in between. Other days you may go for a full-day ride, taking a picnic lunch with you. The evenings will be spent at the lodge, unless you would like to ride out to a fly camp and spend a night out.

In addition to riding, you may enjoy the other activities, which Ol Donyo Wuas has to offer, including day and night game drives, walks and visits to Maasai villages or schools. There are also a number of community and conservation projects, which may take your interest. The lodge has a swimming pool and also offers clay pigeon shooting and massages.

Day 7 (B)
After breakfast return to Nairobi.

Kenya

Please note that Ol Donyo Wuas lodge will be closed from January 10th 2008 to June 2008, for major renovations.
Kenya
  • Cost per person:
  • Ride Only:

    Jul to Sep £2,040

    Oct £1,954

  • Includes: Safarilink schedule flights between Wilson and Chyulu, accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary, all drinks, temporary membership of the Flying Doctor's society of Africa and all horse riding.
  • All Inclusive: From £2,680 depending on the season. Price includes a night's accommodation at House of Waine in Nairobi.
  • Single Supplement: £320
  • Departure Dates: Daily from July to October. Due to the time of the flight from Nairobi to Chyulu departures from the UK must be at least one day earlier and a nights accommodation in Nairobi is required.
  • The Accommodation: Ol Donyo Wuas is a luxurious safari lodge, which has been operating for twenty years. There are seven cottages at Ol Donyo Wuas; doubles, twins and family cottages. All are en-suite. There is a central dining and living room and also a swimming pool at the lodge. Children are very welcome. Lodge activities include horse riding, game drives, guided walks, clay pigeon shooting, picnics, massage and much more. There is also a chance to visit Maasai villages or schools and to learn more about local conservation and community projects
  • Food & Drink: The food is extremely varied and made to a high standard. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables are served, with cooked breakfasts daily. Lunch and dinner are three courses, with dinner being served by candlelight. Wine is provided with the evening meal.
  • Laundry: Laundry is available and included within the price. Women's underwear is not done but soap is available for hand washing.
  • Children: There is no minimum riding age at all for the lodge, although ODW prefer 8 years and up for riding out on the trail. Children any younger than this can enjoy lessons in the outdoor school and small hacks between the lodge and stables. Children on safari need to be accompanied by an experienced adult rider.
  • Non-Riders: Non- riders are easily accommodated at the lodge, where there are game drives, game walks, massage, clay pigeon shooting, cultural visits, a swimming pool and much more.