Ol Malo Riding
Ol Malo Lodge is set on a 5,000 acre ranch and game sanctuary, which lies along the Uaso Nyiro River on the edge of Kenya's north-eastern province. It overlooks the Mukogodo, home of the nomadic Ndorobo people, and has impressive views towards Mount Kenya. Ol Malo is privately owned by the Francombe family and offers much more than just a safari experience.
The Riding
Riding is just one of the activities available here and is and not the main focus of the lodge. The 14 small, strong Somali ponies cater for a mixed standard of abilities. Riders go out in groups of a maximum of six and can choose to spend between one and three hours in the saddle. You are able to get close to a number of antelope species and even the odd jackal and giraffe. Riding in this area gives another perspective on the wildlife and gives the opportunity to see things that may be easily passed by in a vehicle.
Accommodation & Facilities
The small lodge has only four cottages which are spread out along the cliff edge overlooking a much visited waterhole. The rooms are constructed from natural rock and ancient olive wood. Each is comfortably furnished and comes with an en-suite bathroom and private verandah. Activities other than riding include day and night games drives, escorted bush walks and camel treks. Game includes giraffe, zebra, antelope, elephant, leopard and buffalo. Day excursions to the Karisia Hills and to the Samburu town of Maralal are available. Alternatively there is a pool to relax in, or excellent bird watching to enjoy.
What Next?
If you’re interested in how to combine an Ol Malo riding safari into a tailor-made safari holiday in Kenya, give our African experts a call. We regularly visit the lodges and camps we recommend and are ready to offer great advice on constructing your perfect holiday.
Ol Malo Lodge riding - Fact Box
Horse type |
Somali ponies | |
| Saddles used | Argentinian saddles |
|
| Maximum number | 6 riders |
|
| Hours in the saddle per day | Between 1 and 6 to suit | |
| Standard of riding required | Novice |
| Children accepted? | No age limit |
|
| When to go? | All year except April, May and November |
|
| Non-riders welcome? | Yes | |
| Activities other than riding | Camel riding, picnics, nature walks and game drives |




