The Ol Malo
Difference
We are so much more than a safari lodge. Life at Ol Malo is about experiences: soar alongside eagles over our private land and flamingos in Lake Logipi in our helicopters, dance in the dust with Samburu warriors singing tales of the past, ride on horseback to watch a family of elephant play in the watering hole, hear the crunch of rock under your camels feet, and listen to stories of Africa under an Acacia tree whilst munching on food cooked on the flames of an open fire. Guests of the Francombe family have the opportunity to witness Kenya through the eyes and minds of those who know and love the land the most, and learn that there is more to life in Africa than the Big Five.
Adventures
Take the Reins
The words ‘daily itinerary’ makes us sweat, because how can one conform to paper when the rhythm of the day should be dictated by the wonders of the natural world itself? There are no pre-timed game drives or regimented schedules here. At Ol Malo, 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, camping out on the open plains, or launching into the Wild North in a doors-off helicopter.
RELAXATION
SAMBURU
HELICOPTER EXCURSIONS
HORSEBACK RIDING
CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS
CAMEL SAFARIS
PRIVATE SAFARIS
FARM-TO-TABLE
WILDLIFE
Lodging
Step into Our World
Our three lodging options – The House, The Lodge, and Ol Malo Nomad – each offer equal parts comfort and style. Ol Malo House and Lodge were designed in a luxury ranch style, built by hand with materials of the land as one of the north’s original bush homes. The Ol Malo Treehouse and Leopard Hide are complimentary overnight activities for guests of the House or Lodge. Ol Malo Nomad, a small and exclusive lightweight mobile camp offers small families or couples the chance to engage with nature in a way they may have never before; exploring the wild on foot, horseback, camel, or in a helicopter.
MAP OF OL MALO
Click on each location to learn more
Samburu
Immerse Yourself
Ol Malo lies in the heart of Samburuland. As their neighbors, we have spent many years working hand-in-hand with the Samburu tribe to benefit the people, wildlife and land surrounding our family. Julia Francombe, daughter of the Ol Malo founders Rocky and Colin, has dedicated her life to understanding and helping the Samburu people by way of innovative programming and real connection with the tribe’s spiritual core. She 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 address urgent needs.
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
“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.”
“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.
“A bit of old-fashioned charm that’s rare in the modern world of glamping and mega-lodges.”
“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. The three-bedroom Main House and two-bedroom Hippo Cottage were created to cater to families and groups. 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.