The Ol Malo
Difference
We are so much more than a safari lodge. At Ol Malo, we specialize in achieving your wildest dreams. Whether this is your first taste of Kenya or your dozenth journey back, we tailor-make each experience so no two trips are alike. We offer you the reins to live out your own adventure, and will leave flexibility in your itinerary to flow with the rhythm of the day.
Adventures
Take the Reins
Life at Ol Malo is about experiences. There are no pre-timed game drives or regimented schedules here. We have helicopters, safari cars, mountain bikes, horses, and camels just waiting to take you on an adventure. All activities are tailored to pursue your every whim; whether that be riding alongside zebra and giraffe on horseback, dancing in the dust with Samburu warriors, camping out on the open plains, exploring the Suguta Valley in a doors-off helicopter, or flying alongside flamingos in Lake Logipi.
Lodging
Step into Our World
Ol Malo was designed in a luxury ranch style, built by hand with materials of the land as one of the north’s original bush homes. The spacious rooms are safari-inspired with added Samburu beading flare. Ol Malo Nomad, our small lightweight mobile camp, offers private groups the chance to explore the wild on foot, horseback, camel, or in a helicopter. The Ol Malo Treehouse and Leopard Hide are complimentary overnight activities for guests.
MAP OF OL MALO
Click on each location to learn more
Ranch
In true farm-to-table fashion, our working ranch and gardens provide most of the food for our guests.
Ol Malo Private Airstrip
We can arrange private bush plane transportation to bring you directly to and from Ol Malo.
Helicopter Excursions
Ol Malo Choppers will take you into the farthest reaches of the Great Rift Valley for a day of pure exploration.
Horse Stables
Horseback ride on our sure-footed bush horses over the open plains.
Samburu Health Clinic
Through our partner, the Samburu Trust, we offer free medical aid and emergency treatments to Samburu tribe members in need
Lodge
Four boutique, hand-crafted guest rooms perfect for couples and honeymooners.
Beading Workshop
Try your hand at traditional beading with a Samburu Mama.
Crocodile Cottage
A standalone, romantic guest room perched on the edge of the valley.
Main House
Three spacious, ensuite guest rooms in the House with a dining room, open living room, star deck, and massage room.
Hippo Cottage
A large, standalone cottage with two separate guest rooms that are ideal for families.
Samburu Trust’s Children’s School
The Samburu Trust offers free, customized education for the pastoral children in the region.
Wildlife
We neighbor elephant, zebra, giraffe, kudu, and many other safari animals that migrate through our unfenced land.
Three Peaks Challenge
Our Samburu warrior guides can lead you on a hike or run to conquer the three peaks on Ol Malo’s land.
Leopard Hide
Perfect for families and kids, sleep in a safe hut in two comfortable bunk beds for a chance to spot wild leopard.
The Treehouse
Complementary for our guests, stay overnight under the African stars in our Treehouse.
Samburu
Immerse Yourself
Ol Malo lies in the heart of Samburuland. As neighbors, we have spent decades working hand-in-hand with the Samburu tribe to benefit the people, wildlife, and land surrounding our family. Julia Francombe, founder of the Samburu Trust and daughter of Ol Malo founders Rocky and Colin, spends the majority of her time living in the bush with her team of warriors to understand the needs and struggles of the Samburu and implement projects that make a real difference.
OL MALO Specialty Adventures
OL MALO Specialty Adventures
- Enjoy a private safari car and dedicated guide
- Sleep under the African night sky in The Treehouse
- Visit village homes accessible only to Ol Malo guests
- Brave an overnight in The Leopard Hide
- Try traditional beading with Samburu Mamas
- Run or hike the Three Peaks Challenge
- Game drive to a sundowner with not a soul in sight
- Chopper to explore the far reaches of the Suguta Valley
Ol Malo Safari ADVENTURES
Ol Malo Safari ADVENTURES
- Explore in the wild from a rooftop safari car
- Horseback ride through the surrounding lands
- Walk through the Bush for an up-close look at wildlife
- Learn traditional Samburu cooking techniques
- Visit a traditional village market (Tuesday / Saturdays)
- Learn to throw spears like a Samburu Warrior
- Play ping pong, giant Jenga, darts, and slack line
- Be massaged by the infinity pool
“Otherwordly helicopter safari in Kenya”
“Completely surreal. Ol Malo is truly the trip of a lifetime. The Suguta helicopter tour is absolutely breathtaking and a must-do. I rate this trip 10/10 and will absolutely be returning. If you get the chance you MUST go.”
– Dave S.
“Ol Malo in northern Kenya specializes in creating the authentic “Out of Africa” moments you’ve been dreaming about. After you get wild with a private helicopter safari taking you into the Great Rift Valley to spot big game, take a leisurely soak in the outdoor heart-shape bathtub on the private guest room terrace as the sounds of elephants and zebras drift up from the valley below.”
“Words can’t describe the experience you will have here. This was the most amazing and adventurous trip I’ve ever experienced. It’s hard to even put into words. From game drives to sunrise hiking, horseback rides, being submerged into the Samburu culture, amazing food and meals, and more…you can’t beat this place! The staff is AMAZING making you feel right at home.”
– Morgan T.
“Pioneers of this style of tourism – This is one of the first ‘bush homes’ in East Africa offering a luxury ranch-style stay. All the rooms at Ol Malo are luxurious spaces, with private verandas, and en suite bathrooms that feature cascading showers and inviting over sized hot tubs.”
“Being there felt like being in a movie. From the absolutely amazing staff/accommodations to the breathtaking views and experiences aboard the chopper and on game drives… this will forever be one of my favorite places ever visited.”
– Faraz M.
“The best trip I have ever done. There are limitless options for relaxation or adventure at your fingertips and the Francombes are rich resources to help structure any trip desired. Ol Malo is the perfect home base to see the region, I can’t recommend this property enough”
– William W.
Traveling as a Family?
Ol Malo has ideal accommodations for families with kids of all ages. From swimming pools and ping pong competitions to beginners horseback riding and spear throwing with a Samburu Warrior, your children will have no shortage of wonders to discover.