El Karama Lodge

6GGR6W43+QP, Nanyuki, Kenya

Just an hour’s drive from the busiest town in Laikipia County, El Karama Lodge feels like a world away. Set on 14,000 acres of private land, six cottages and two riverfront cabins are simply decorated with locally sourced stone and thatch and regionally made furnishings, giving emphasis to the lush natural surroundings. If total immersion is more your speed, the staff can arrange a personal fly camp before your arrival: after a hike to a remote location, you’re greeted by a suspended tent with a clear view to the night sky, complete with comfortable bedding, a drinks table, and a small barbecue. What you won’t find here? Cell service, though you’ll hardly miss it. A drive through El Karama land is almost certain to include sightings of elephants, giraffes, and zebras, but guests can also see creatures that are unique to northern Kenya, including gerenuk and Laikipia hartebeeste. Back at camp, there’s nothing to do as darkness sets in but lie back, stargaze, and listen to the calls of the wild.

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Walking Safari in Laikipia

Safaris in open-sided Land Cruisers have their place, but a walking safari offers an up-close opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Kenya’s landscapes and learn about the fragility of the ecosystem in the most natural way possible. Laikipia, a county in northern Kenya known for its carefully preserved grasslands and effective conservation methods, has varied terrain and a high density of wildlife, making it ideal for walking safaris. El Karama Eco Lodge in Laikipia offers expert-led walking safaris that avoid the trappings of more contrived experiences and teach guests a great deal about the flora and fauna along the way.

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