Four private villas across 40,000 acres of Laikipia
Ol Lentille takes exclusivity unusually seriously. The lodge has only four fully serviced villas within a 40,000-acre conservation area in northern Laikipia, and each villa has its own staff and private safari vehicle. The result feels closer to a private wilderness estate than a conventional safari lodge.
The conservation area and lodge are community owned, with Maasai and Samburu communities central to both the tourism model and the protection of the surrounding landscape.
The villas
Each villa has a distinct design and capacity. Carissa sleeps two and is the most romantic, with a circular bed and outdoor bath. Aloe sleeps four across two bedrooms and has a plunge pool. Acacia also sleeps four and is built into the rock with views towards an elephant waterhole. Boscia is the largest, sleeping six in three bedrooms with generous living space and a plunge pool.
Private dining and dedicated service mean the villas work exceptionally well for couples, families and groups who do not want to share their safari rhythm with other guests.
Safari without a timetable
Day and night game drives, guided walks, mountain biking and quad biking can all be tailored around the guests. Additional experiences can include camel safaris, horse riding and excursions farther into Laikipia.
The area is home to the distinctive wildlife of northern Kenya as well as elephant and other larger species, but Ol Lentille is as much about landscape, privacy and cultural connection as ticking off sightings.
Community and culture
Because the lodge is community owned, visits and cultural experiences can go beyond a staged performance. Guests can meet local Maasai and Samburu communities, visit schools and markets and, when appropriate, gain insight into ceremonies and daily life.
Pool, spa and gallery
The main infinity pool overlooks two waterholes. A dedicated spa provides treatments, while the circular Gallery functions as a library and club room with a rooftop bar for private dining and stargazing.
Highlights
- Only four private villas
- 40,000-acre community conservation area
- Dedicated staff and private safari vehicle
- Day and night game drives
- Walking, mountain biking and quad biking
- Infinity pool, spa and distinctive Gallery
- Deep Maasai and Samburu community connection
Why we like it
Ol Lentille is ideal for travellers who value privacy and freedom more than a conventional safari timetable. Four villas across 40,000 acres is an extraordinary ratio, and the community ownership gives the experience substance beyond the accommodation itself.
Private Hideaway Escapes can advise on the best villa for your party and combine Ol Lentille with complementary Kenyan safari regions.