Intimate, owner-operated and award-winning, El Karama is located on a private wildlife conservancy below Mount Kenya. With 14,000 acres of private land and views of over 200,000 acres, this ranks among Laikipia’s most magical, expansive habitats.

Home to several endemic and endangered species including the Grevy zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and Laikipia hartebeest, plus elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, hippo, wild dogs and many more, its wide-ranging landscapes are bewitching – and the safari experience unforgettable. As curious about plants, birds or insects as they are about bigger creatures, El Karama’s guiding team will ensure you connect with the land whether on foot, on horseback or on a game drive.

You’ll also be immersed in the local culture, with the chance to participate in precious conservation activities.

  • This private conservancy has been stewarding this habitat since opening in 1964, protecting wildlife and supporting biodiversity through holistic management and sustainability.
  • A strict local-procurement strategy, its tourism model supports a multitude of artisans and entrepreneurs in the region.
  • The organic garden, kitchens and homestead ensure that the food is organic, home-grown and farm-to-table.
  • The lodge’s operations aren’t currently supported by any donor funding
  • All water has been harvested
  • The lodge is 100% solar powered
Rooms
All eight cottages are unique and vary in both size and feel
Bathrooms
All except one are en-suite with large hot-water baths or showers and flushing toilets
Dinning
Both communal and private dining are laid on in the main mess area, and meals out in the bush are also available
Extras
Swimming pool, El Karama is also home to the private studio of one of Africa's most talented wildlife sculptors in Murray Grant. Interested collectors can book in advance to visit him in person, Spa treatments
Caters To
Families, couples, single travellers or small groups

Supports

Activities

  • Game drives
  • Bush walks
  • Heli-flights
  • Horse-riding
  • Swimming at a waterfall
  • Fly-camping
  • Yoga
  • Tour the organic garden to see where your food comes from