Olerai House
Olerai House is an intimate boutique farmhouse and private wildlife sanctuary set on the shores of Lake Naivasha within the Sirocco Wildlife Sanctuary in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Owned by the Douglas-Hamilton family, the property offers a refined yet deeply personal “home-away-from-home” experience where conservation, comfort, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and open lawns, Olerai House provides a rare setting where giraffes, zebras, and Black-and-White Colobus monkeys roam freely across the grounds, creating an immersive wildlife experience just steps from your room.
The main house features five to six individually decorated en-suite bedrooms, including distinctive spaces such as the Twiga, Ndovu, and Chui rooms. Each room is thoughtfully designed with local wood, stone finishes, and vibrant Indian tapestries, reflecting a warm, eclectic farmhouse style that feels both elegant and welcoming. The intimate scale of the property ensures privacy and exclusivity, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking boutique accommodation in Naivasha.
Beyond the main house, the sanctuary also offers alternative stays for guests desiring additional space or seclusion. The Dairy, a converted pink-brick barn, provides charming countryside character, while The Studio and Tinga House cater to self-catering guests or those seeking a more private retreat within the sanctuary grounds. This variety makes Olerai House a flexible option for travelers looking for exclusive-use villas or private farmhouse stays near Lake Naivasha.
Dining is a highlight of the Olerai experience. Meals are crafted using organic produce grown directly on the farm, often including home-baked bread, handmade cheese, and pasture-raised meats. The farm-to-table approach enhances freshness and flavor while reinforcing the lodge’s commitment to sustainability. The property’s eco-conscious philosophy is further reflected in its affiliation with the renowned Elephant Watch Camp in Samburu, underscoring a shared dedication to conservation-led hospitality.
Activities at Olerai House are designed to connect guests with the surrounding ecosystem. Guided bush walks along established elephant paths introduce visitors to indigenous flora and medicinal plants, while boat excursions on Lake Naivasha offer opportunities to observe hippos and birdlife or visit Crescent Island Sanctuary for walking safaris among giraffes and antelopes. One of the most unique experiences available is the “African Gondola” sunset cruise, complete with live music on the lake, blending romance with the natural beauty of the Rift Valley. The lodge also serves as an excellent base for day trips to Hell’s Gate National Park, Mount Longonot, and even Lake Nakuru for extended wildlife exploration.
Olerai House is easily accessible, approximately a two-hour drive from Nairobi via Moi North Lake Road. For added convenience and exclusivity, the property features its own private airstrip, allowing guests to arrive by air in roughly 30 minutes from Nairobi.
For travelers searching for boutique lodges in Naivasha, private wildlife sanctuaries on Lake Naivasha, or luxury farmhouse stays in the Great Rift Valley, Olerai House offers an intimate blend of conservation, culinary excellence, and serene lakeside living.
