*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
Ol Tukai has one of the best spots in Amboseli, backed by Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, and surrounded by open plains in some of the finest elephant-watching country in the world. Monkeys and baboons roam the grounds, and the dining room and garden terrace are just metres from the elephants, zebra and antelope that stalk the boundary. The two-storey open-air Elephant Bar is an excellent spot for cocktails; head to the upper deck level to soak up the views of the marshlands and Kilimanjaro. The lodge also has an extensive African art collection dotted throughout, and a walkway leads to a large pool surrounded by sun loungers. The chalet-style rooms all have wonderful views of the wetlands or of Kilimanjaro itself. All are constructed from locally-sourced materials including gum tree, river stone and slate, and have their own private terrace. Two of the rooms have been specifically designed to accommodate disabled guests.
You’ll receive a warm welcome at the tranquil Tawi Lodge. Its location – in the community-run Kilitome conservancy that provides a vital wildlife corridor between Amboseli and the Chyulu Hills – means that as well as promoting harmony between the Maasai people, local wildlife and the environment, it can offer extra activities not permitted in Amboseli National Park, including thrilling night game drives. The dining area and bar form the focal point of the lodge. There’s real attention given to meals here, with much of the produce grown in the fertile volcanic water-fed wetlands and spices from the Swahili coast. There’s even a well-stocked wine cellar with more than 60 varieties of wine. Dine outside under the shade of huge trees and take in the views of the watering hole where wildlife including zebra, giraffe and warthogs come to drink, and where elephants wallow and play in the mud just metres away. The thatched cottages all have a fireplace, a large en suite bathroom with shower and freestanding bathtub perfectly positioned in front of a window looking out to Kilimanjaro, and a wooden deck to make the most of the beautiful views. Lighting and water systems here are solar powered.
Ol Tukai Lodge
Tawi Lodge
