As a specialist in luxury and ethical travel, I understand the importance of personally experiencing a destination before recommending it to my guests. Firsthand knowledge allows us to curate truly bespoke journeys, ensuring every detail aligns with our guests’ expectations. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting El Karama Lodge, an exceptional eco-luxury safari retreat in the heart of Laikipia, Kenya. Over three unforgettable nights in October, I explored the lodge, participated in its annual bird census, and put its reputation as a premier family safari destination to the test—joined by friends and their two young boys.
A Hidden Gem: El Karama Lodge
El Karama is a rare find—a place where sustainable luxury meets authentic wilderness experiences. Situated within a private wildlife conservancy on a working cattle ranch, this eco-conscious lodge is deeply intertwined with its environment and local community. From the moment you arrive, you are immersed in nature—elephants, giraffes and more are roaming the open plains. For a lucky few a pride of lions possibly feasting in the distance, and an orchestra of vibrant birdlife surrounding you.
The lodge itself blends rustic elegance with modern comfort, offering a range of beautifully designed accommodations. Whether you choose the exclusive-use Nilotica House, a family-friendly cottage, or a riverside banda, each space is designed for privacy, relaxation, and an intimate connection with the wilderness.
The activities here are so amazing and engaging. From game drives and walking safaris to farm tours and cultural visits, there’s something for everyone. One of the standout features, however, is El Karama’s Bush School, a unique and enriching experience for children that truly sets the lodge apart.
The Annual Bird Census
One of the highlights of my stay was participating in the annual bird census on October 12th. This year, El Karama submitted an impressive 162 species of birds counted in just one day. Together with my guide, Robinson – who by the way has INCREDIBLE knowledge about birds – identified 95 species, while Robinson identified a further 40 odd species. It was a fascinating experience that not only allowed me to engage with nature in a new way but also deepened my appreciation for the lodge’s conservation efforts. El Karama’s commitment to wildlife and birdlife is evident, making it a fantastic destination for birding enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Experiences for All Ages
El Karama has long been known as a great family destination, and I decided to put this to the test by traveling with friends and their two young boys. I was thoroughly impressed by how child-friendly the lodge is. The staff went out of their way to make the boys feel at home, catering for their food preferences and timings, keeping them engaged while on safari and the Bush School was an absolute highlight for them.
The Bush School – A Unique Learning Experience
El Karama’s Bush School is a treasure for families traveling with children. This engaging program immerses kids in nature and teaches them about the local ecosystem through fun, hands-on activities. Over the course of our stay, the boys learned essential bushcraft skills, such as animal tracking, how to identify different plant species, and spent time in the kitchen. They were also taught about conservation and the importance of preserving wildlife, all in a way that was interactive and fun.
Led by experienced guides, the Bush School encourages curiosity and exploration. Whether it’s bug hunting, making plaster casts of animal tracks, or learning to light a fire safely, the experience is designed to connect children with nature while giving them an unforgettable adventure. The boys were so excited every day, and it was evident that these lessons would have a lasting impact.
The Incredible Food!
In addition to the unforgettable wildlife experiences and warm hospitality, one of the standout aspects of my visit to El Karama Lodge was the food experience. Without a doubt, it was some of the best food I’ve had on safari – fresh, homely, and bursting with flavor. Every meal felt like a comforting indulgence, made from locally sourced ingredients and prepared with love.
A special mention goes to Sophie, one of the owners of El Karama, whose passion for good food is evident in every bite. She has even published a wonderful recipe book – The Bush Kitchen, which includes some of the delicious meals we enjoyed during our stay. What’s more, proceeds from the book go directly back into conservation efforts at El Karama, making each purchase a meaningful contribution to their ongoing environmental work.
This attention to detail and commitment to sustainability, even when it comes to the food, made the entire experience at El Karama that much more memorable. Whether it’s enjoying a hearty meal after a game drive or indulging in a simple, flavorful lunch by the river, the food at El Karama is an integral part of the experience – one that stays with you long after you’ve left.
The Bronze Studio
During my stay at El Karama Lodge, I also had the unique opportunity to visit the studio of Murray Grant, an incredibly talented self – taught Bronze Sculptor of Wildlife who creates some of the most realistic bronze wildlife sculptures I’ve ever seen! His work captures the essence of African wildlife in stunning detail, and seeing the creative process firsthand was truly incredible. Murray’s sculptures are not only works of art but also a testament to his deep connection with the natural world, which aligns beautifully with El Karama’s ethos of conservation and sustainability. This added an artistic dimension to my safari experience, making it all the more enriching. One day, I hope to have a Bronze my Murray Grant in my home!
Final Thoughts
El Karama Lodge surpassed my expectations in every way. Seamlessly blending eco-luxury with adventure, it offers an unparalleled safari experience where conservation, comfort, and exploration go hand in hand. From its beautifully designed, sustainably built accommodations to the diverse range of immersive activities, every detail reflects a deep commitment to both guests and the environment.
For families, the Bush School is an absolute standout—an enriching, hands-on experience that ensures both parents and children leave with lifelong memories and a deeper connection to nature. Having experienced it firsthand, I can confidently say that El Karama is the ultimate family safari destination—a place where adventure meets education, and every moment feels extraordinary.