ACTIVITIES
Guests come to Olerai for a variety of reasons. Maybe you are on your way to a safari in a distant corner of Kenya. You could be taking a short break from the city with your family, or are here as part of a special event. Whatever brought you to Olerai, we’re pretty sure you will feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and reconnected by the end of your stay, like so many of our guests, warmed by the sun, rejuvenated by the fresh air and sounds of nature. We like to think that that is because everyone finds something to fill their time exactly as they wish at Olerai House.
That could be doing absolutely nothing: grabbing a novel from the shelves dotted around the Lodge, curling up on a plump cushion in the garden, and losing yourself in your book until the next mealtime rolls round. We recommend looking up occasionally, though, to check on the giraffe or zebra that are likely to be grazing or browsing nearby, or the colobus monkeys high up in the treetops. Or you could spend the day sunning by the swimming pool, exchanging recipes in the kitchen, or perhaps lazing on a daybed with a stupendous view to enthral you.
Equally, though, you could be on your feet out exploring from dawn until dusk. An enchanting stroll through the Sanctuary led by our charming local guides opens your eyes to the environment and the wildlife all around. More strenuous hikes could include a long hill climb up the ridge behind Olerai, or an extended walk along game paths that crisscross the property. Further afield, we can arrange a day trip to conquer Mt Longonot, a sunrise horseback ride amongst wildlife, or a picnic in any number of secret little places we are happy to share with you. Ask us to arrange any of these activities for you, but please be aware that some may incur additional costs on top of your otherwise inclusive rate.
SWIMMING
WALKING AND JOGGING
LAKE TRIP AND PICNIC
RIDING AND GOLF
We have friends close to Olerai who will be happy to arrange a horseback ride through the wilderness, perhaps alongside wild animals that are far less spooked by horses than humans. Near to the Lodge lies the Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort, one of Africa’s most spectacular 18-hole championship courses with majestic views over Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley. Equipment and caddies are available for hire for players without their own clubs.
HELL'S GATE NATIONAL PARK
RIFT VALLEY VOLCANOES
FLAMINGO LAKE
A half hour drive from Olerai is the small lake, Oloidien, a favourite stopover for migrating flamingo, where you can take a boat out into the middle and enjoy watching the pink ribbons of birds along the shoreline. Further to the north in the Great Rift Valley, but a far bigger mission to get to, is Lake Bogoria, a ‘soda lake’ that attracts huge flocks of both Lesser and Greater Flamingo that feed on algae and plankton in the water. Very few organisms can survive the lake’s intense alkalinity caused by ancient volcanic ash, but the flamingoes thrive. The best way to get there is by plane, flying in for a picnic in a charming glade of acacias by hot water geysers, and a fantastic aerial view of the flamingo phenomenon.
FLY-IN FOR BREAKFAST
NAKURU'S RHINOS
Lake Nakuru National Park, a two hour drive from Olerai, hosts one of the world’s greatest concentrations of white rhinoceros, as well as being home to the critically endangered black rhino. Present are many of the plains game endemic to Olerai that amass along the shoreline, but also predators including leopards and the world-famous tree-climbing lions. Guests will be charged for park fees according to Kenya Wildlife Service tariffs. For a shorter trip to see rhino, there’s also Kongoni sanctuary, a half hour trip around the lake from Olerai.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The wildlife sanctuary is a magical and inspiring location for weddings, parties, yoga holidays, artists’ retreats, work gatherings, board meetings or small conferences. Whether it is a large three-day event or a simple boutique lunch, our team of highly trained chefs and friendly staff will make you feel at home and look after your every need. Guests can be accommodated at Olerai House and Sirocco, the Douglas-Hamilton’s private Naivasha home or at other farm houses close by. Please get in touch to discuss what you need, and we will do our best to arrange everything.