It may be hard to believe that, just a 45-minute drive from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, there lies a hotel where you can rest in utter comfort and still enjoy all the thrills of game drives and encounters with endangered animals. The Emakoko, an owner-managed 10-cabin hotel on the border of Nairobi National Park, is a popular stop-off for guests before starting or after completing an extended Kenyan safari. Its four Land Cruisers are available to take guests for game spotting in the neighbouring national park, which is a favourite with photographers who enjoy capturing the unusual juxtaposition of a lofty giraffe with a jetliner flying overhead!

The guides at The Emakoko can also arrange visits to the nearby Sheldrick Trust, where you can see the incredible work they do with orphaned elephants and rhinos, and the Giraffe Centre for encounters with rare Rothschild’s giraffe. In addition to their tracking skills, they are also skilled bargainers and are happy to accompany you on shopping expeditions into heady Nairobi. Keenly aware of their place in the community, The Emakoko are part-sponsors of the Lion Lighting Project, which illuminates local settlements to protect them from the very real chance of fatal lion attacks. Dotted on the green, hilly landscape, stand-alone rooms at The Emakoko are positioned to make the most of the views across the acacia-carpeted valley where Cape buffalo, zebra and waterbuck still roam. The tastefully appointed rooms have long verandahs, welcoming walk-in showers and stone fireplaces that are perfect for unwinding.

Highlights

• Alfresco dining area with pizza oven
• Borders Nairobi National Park
• Swimming pool & safari boutique
• Convenient location
• Eco-friendly solar heating
• Member of Kenyan Professional Safari Guides Association

Activities

• GAME DRIVES
• DAY TOURS
• HELICOPTER FLIGHTS
• SUNDOWNERS

Rooms

Facilities

With direct access to the Nairobi National Park and four dedicated Land Cruisers, game drives with KPSGA-qualified guides are a cinch at The Emakoko. In addition, guides can take you on tours of the Sheldrick Trust, Giraffe Centre and the downtown markets and malls of buzzing Nairobi for a truly African shopping expedition. The lodge also has its on-site boutique for once-off presents and last-minute safari essentials.

Days can be spent lazing at the swimming pool and while away cool evenings with a good book next to a crackling fire.

Dining

Meals at The Emakoko are served in the open-sided dining area where the fires flicker on winter nights. Feast on tasty meals while sharing the day’s adventures or sip on a cocktail or a cup of fine Kenyan coffee while gazing over the high grass beyond the timber decking.