Horse Riding at ol Donyo Lodge – Luxury Safari Lodge in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills

ol Donyo Lodge is a premier safari destination in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills, nestled between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. Set on the private Mbirikani Group Ranch and part of Great Plains Conservation’s Réserve Collection, the lodge offers a distinctive blend of adventure, exclusivity, and conservation. With panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, private plunge pools, and a strong focus on authentic cultural encounters, ol Donyo Lodge delivers a one-of-a-kind safari experience tailored to discerning travellers.

Horse Riding

 The lodge offers daily two- to four-hour African horse riding safaris for guests staying at Kenya’s ol Donyo Lodge. Enjoy exhilarating medium to fast-paced canters, sightings of antelope and our famous big Tuskers.

To truly enjoy your African horse riding safari in Kenya, you must be riding fit, confident, intermediate to experienced, ride with an independent seat, and control a horse at all paces over uneven terrain.

All guests 12 years of age and older interested in an African horse riding safari must complete a pre-ride assessment to determine their experience level and ability to control the horse.

Intermediate and experienced riders can ride through the thick bush before heading out onto the plains. Less experienced riders are welcome to enjoy a relaxing ride exploring the foothills of the Chyulus.

The horses are well-schooled and used to the environment we share with the wildlife.

The ol Donyo Lodge horse stables boast an impressive range of breeds, including Friesian and Shire crosses, Arabian breeds and the South African Boerperd. We choose our horses for their laid-back temperament, endurance, and versatility. The horses are hand-picked to offer guests the perfect African horse riding safari adventure in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills.

The camp rides the horses with English bridles and bits and offer a choice of English or Trail saddles. A selection of riding hats, boots, breeches and half chaps are available for guests at no additional charge.

All the rides have a maximum of 6 guests at a time, accompanied by two experienced guides. This number is subject to change based on the group’s ability and the rider’s preference. We respectfully request that no riders over 95 kilograms participate to ensure the safety of both you and our horses.

There are several advanced-level horses and can accommodate experienced riders over our weight limit once we receive the completed riding questionnaire from guests, which all riders must complete prior to their arrival.

For safety reasons, we have a minimum riding age of 12 years for our horse riding safaris in Kenya when at ol Donyo Lodge. A riding parent or guardian must accompany all children between 12 and 15. Children under 12 are most welcome to visit the horses in our stables and feed them treats.

Location – Chyulu Hills, Southern Kenya

Located in the heart of the 111,000-hectare Mbirikani Group Ranch, ol Donyo Lodge sits in one of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes. With direct views of Mount Kilimanjaro and access to a pristine wilderness area home to elephants, lions, and rare species like gerenuk, this setting offers seclusion and stunning beauty. The lodge’s position between Amboseli and Tsavo ensures a rich diversity of habitats and wildlife.

The Lodge – Luxury Safari Accommodation in Kenya

ol Donyo Lodge features just eight thatched suites, including a two-bedroom family unit, designed for maximum privacy and spectacular views. Each suite offers:

– Private plunge pool and rooftop terrace with star bed
– En-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers
– Elegant furnishings, writing desks, and lounge areas
– In-room charging facilities, Wi-Fi, and binoculars

The main lodge includes a dining area, infinity pool, sunken hide at the waterhole, lounge, wine cellar, and open viewing decks. Sustainability is woven into every element, from solar power to locally inspired design.

Activities & Wildlife Viewing – Scenic & Cultural Safaris

ol Donyo Lodge offers a wide range of immersive experiences, ideal for both first-time and seasoned safari guests. Highlights include:

– Game Drives: Explore private terrain teeming with elephants, big cats, and plains game
– Horseback Safaris: Ride with expert guides through the open savanna
– Guided Bush Walks: Learn about local flora and fauna on foot
– Night Drives: Discover nocturnal wildlife in complete solitude
– Cultural Visits: Engage with the Maasai community through authentic interactions
– Photographic Safaris: Use professional Canon/Nikon gear available for guests
– Rooftop Star Beds: Sleep under the stars with views of Kilimanjaro

The diversity of experiences, matched with exclusivity, makes ol Donyo Lodge a top choice for families, couples, and photographers alike.

Opening Times & Guest Information

ol Donyo Lodge is open all year, with each season offering its own unique magic. Essential details include:

– Minimum Age: 5 years (children’s activities and family suite available)
– Inclusions: Full board, beverages, laundry, safari activities, photographic gear, transfers from Chyulu Airstrip
– Flights: Daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Chyulu Hills Airstrip
– Best Time to Visit: June–October for dry season viewing; January–March for lush scenery and excellent wildlife