Ol Malo

Ol Malo is located on a 5,000 acre ranch and wildlife sanctuary, which stretches from the plains down the Laikipia Escarpment to the Ewaso Nyiro River on the edge of Kenya’s north-eastern province.

Accommodation & Facilities

The lodge is set on the edge of a cliff and looks south over the deep valley, giving impressive views of the surrounding wilderness and occasionally Mount Kenya far in the distance. The lodge is very small, catering for just eight guests at any one time in great comfort. The Francombe family, who host guests, make Ol Malo really special. They have lived in Kenya all their lives and are very personable and will ensure you get the most out of your stay in this peaceful wilderness. Their home is built with natural stone, with thatched roofs, overlooking a much visited waterhole. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms and a private verandah.

Wildlife & Activities

Guests can choose to go on day and night wildlife drives, horse rides, escorted bush walks and camel treks. Bush meals are also a big feature of any stay here. Wildlife includes kudu, giraffe, zebra, antelope, elephant, leopard and buffalo. Day excursions to the Karisia Hills and to the Samburu town of Maralal are available. At Ol Malo, there are various opportunities to interact with the Samburu, such as spending time at one of the local manyattas and learning how the Samburu go about their daily lives, and seeing the morans (warriors) and young women – guests will understand why ‘samburu’ means butterfly in Maa when you see all their glorious beads and finery. There is a lovely pool to relax in, and excellent bird watching.