About Loisaba Tented Camp
A bush fire tore through the original, multi-award-winning Loisaba in 2013, devastating the property.
In 2016 Loisaba Tented Camp re-opened as a high-end lodge of tented rooms, with uninterrupted views of Mount Kenya. The lodge is surrounded by the 56,0000 acres (227km²) of the Loisaba Conservancy.
While Loisaba, eschewing rustic-chic, has much less atmosphere than most of our properties in Laikipia, we thoroughly enjoyed our stays here over the years. This is a friendly, modern, sophisticated lodge with extremely comfortable and well-finished rooms. The wide range of optional activities does offset the somewhat inconsistent game viewing on the conservancy, resulting in an all-round enjoyable stay.
Our view
While Loisaba, eschewing rustic-chic, has much less atmosphere than most of our properties in Laikipia, we thoroughly enjoyed our stays here over the years. This is a friendly, modern, sophisticated lodge with extremely comfortable and well-finished rooms. The wide range of optional activities does offset the somewhat inconsistent game viewing on the conservancy, resulting in an all-round enjoyable stay.
Kenya expert
Accommodation
12 tented rooms
Children
Best for 7+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Sleeping under the stars
Traveller reviews of Loisaba Tented Camp
4 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryLoisaba Tented Camp: Our full report
A bush fire tore through the original, multi-award-winning Loisaba in 2013, devastating the property.
In 2016 Loisaba Tented Camp re-opened as a high-end lodge of tented rooms, with uninterrupted views of Mount Kenya. The lodge is surrounded by the 56,0000 acres (227km²) of the Loisaba Conservancy.
Arriving at the lodge, you approach from the north up the back of the ridge. Reception, the office and shop are here at the entrance. A large, central decking area comprises the bar and dining area with panoramic views across the plains to the south and cone of Mount Kenya on the horizon. Over to the left is the infinity pool and contemporary outside lounge area, where some meals may be held. There is a waterhole on the plains below camp, so there is often wildlife to be seen from up here.
The rooms at Loisaba consist of eight standard tents (six doubles and two twins), and four family units formed by combining two tents connected by a walkway.
These tents are very large, supported on solid wooden frames and entered through a heavy wooden door at the rear. Inside, clean lines predominate, with soft lighting, cream walls for the toilet and bathroom and polished floorboards. Despite the breeze through the insect mesh windows, and the open front giving access to the deck and private grass lawn, the tents feel much more like hotel rooms than other safari camps. Where polished branches from dead trees are in vogue at many camps seeking that look of rustic, castaway luxury, Loisaba is going the other way, using natural elements – rugs of cowhide disks, elegant screens of white twigs and lampshades of porcupine quills – only to enhance a modern, minimalist design.
The picture is completed by large, comfortable beds (made up with high-thread-count sheets); a writing table (set with a decanter of sweet sherry on the house); plenty of clothes storage space; and comfy recliners on the deck.
What is currently the main family unit at the east end of the property, with its own swimming pool, will become a private section of the camp in 2019. This will be booked on an exclusive basis, using up to four tents, and the party here will be allocated their own staff to look after them. Meals will be prepared in part in this private camp, such as on open barbeques, and it will be possible for guests to spend time in the main areas too if they wish. Game drives will be on an exclusive basis. This will make an excellent base for large families or groups who would benefit from complete flexibility.
Loisaba offers relatively typical day and night game drives as well as guided bush walks. When we last stayed we found guiding was excellent.
There is also some seasonal fishing, and guided mountain-biking, but more excitingly, Loisaba offers guided horse- and camel-riding for a supplementary cost. Horse riding requires some experience – the duration and nature of the ride will be determined by the ability of the guests, as judged by those in charge of the stables. During our last stay, we were thoroughly impressed with the horse riding set up and had a very enjoyable ride across the plains. While little wildlife was spotted, it’s not uncommon to encounter plains game on these rides, as well as potentially some of the more dangerous species – which is why it is important to have the skill to be able to control the horse appropriately if the situation arises.
You can also do a village visit (a donation of $30 per person is expected). In the afternoon, game drives and other bush activities often finish with a sundowner by the pretty Sosian Lake, where you may be serenaded by a Turkana musician playing his local harp. There is often a hippo in the lake, and sundowners may be curtailed at short notice. You can also spend a night under the stars at Loisaba's satellite camp, Loisaba Star Beds.
Loisaba Conservancy is in the process of building a brand new place to stay, due to open in mid 2019 – Lodo Camp. Set high up on a ridgeline, this camp promises to be a step up in luxury from Loisaba Tented Camp, while still offering all of the activities on the conservancy. Ask us for the latest on this new camp if you’re interested!
Geographics
- Location
- Laikipia, Kenya
- Ideal length of stay
- 3-4 nights.
- Directions
- Loisaba's own airstrip is used by scheduled services and just a 15-30 minute drive from the lodge. Nanyuki Airport is a 3-hour drive away.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We thought the food at Loisaba was really good, tasty and creative, and with multiple options, even at breakfast. The lodge has a small herb and salad garden and there's a larger vegetable garden at the airstrip.
We stayed at Loisaba we found that the dishes are a mixture of cuisines – for example, one lunch there was a definite Asian influence with chicken stir fry and crunchy raw vegetable salad, whereas for dinner, we had a classic steak and vegetable accompaniments, with a fondant chocolate dessert. Breakfast had the classic selection of hot choices, along with various sweet treats and fruit dishes from which to choose. All meals have a menu presented with lunch and dinner having set choices for the three courses, often accompanied with an Italian dish on the side. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- You can request to eat by the pool on your tent's deck if you prefer. You can also opt for a more adventurous bush dinner at Sosian Lake, where sundowners are usually held (which costs extra).
- Drinks included
- A good range of house soft and alcoholic drinks is included in your rate. Cellar wines, Champagne and premium spirits are extra and settled on departure.
Special interests
- Riding holidays
- Loisaba's excellent, well-run stable of 20 horses is one of the lodge's principal appeals. Riding here is a great option for reasonably experienced riders who can ride among the wildlife accompanied by a guide.
- See ideas for Riding holidays in Kenya
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome to stay at Loisaba, but the camp expects parents to keep them under supervision.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None.
- Special activities & services
- There are a number of activities that children may enjoy, such as the camel-riding, visiting beading and/or wood workshops, learning tracking and basic bush skills, or visiting a local village school. Parents are welcome to request meals at any time they prefer, which can be served in the rooms, and there is also a babysitting service available for US$10 per night.
- Equipment
- High chairs and baby cots are available.
- Generally recommended for children
- We think Loisaba, with its fenced perimeter and swimming pool (no lifeguard, and it can be quite chilly), horse- and camel-riding and mountain bikes, is a good option for families with older children who will be happy in the fairly sophisticated, adult atmosphere.
- Notes
- Although the lodge is fenced, there is still the chance of wildlife wandering through camp, so children need to be under parental supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Loisaba Tented Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Loisaba Tented Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
33% success
33% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Loisaba is essentially powered 100% by solar energy, stored in batteries. They do have a backup generator, but it's rarely needed.
- Communications
- WiFi is available throughout the lodge.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV in the lodge, but guests are welcome to watch big matches and the like at the staff canteen.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- They have a sophisticated filtration and purification system for providing the main water supply and drinking water. Water for showering is heated using a solar system. There are water dispensers in the main areas for refilling water bottles.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- First-aid kits are available. Managers have medical training. The two local hospitals are the excellent Kimanjo Hospital and Nanyuki Cottage Hospital.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Loisaba Tented Camp has a perimeter fence with guarded gate access and a 24-hour security patrol. In addition the lodge is safeguarded by the security operations of the Loisaba Conservany itself. There are 2-way radios in the rooms to speak to the manager on duty.
- Fire safety
- Fire-training is done every two years and they have regular fire drills. They claim to be 100% compliant with fire safety standards and equipment is checked every six months.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Sleeping under the stars
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Hand washed and returned within 24 hours. As usual, ladies underwear can't be laundered, but soap powder is provided in the rooms for you to do it yourself.
- Money
- Digital safes are provided in every room.
- Accepted payment on location
- Foreign exchange services are not available, but they do take credit cards for payments, and with no surcharge.
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Loisaba Tented Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Loisaba Tented Camp.
Excursions from Loisaba Tented Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Loisaba Tented Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Anti-poaching Dogs Display
Approx. one hour
Interact with the dog keepers and learn about what it takes to look after the specially trained canine team. Guests are encouraged to try and evade the sniffer dogs, not only is this great fun, but it helps to offer genuine training for the dogs.
More about Anti-poaching Dogs DisplayOther lodges in Laikipia
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Loisaba Starbeds is a simple camp of 4 rooms with pull-out, open-air 'star beds', located near a dam in the Loisaba Conservancy, in northwestern Laikipia.
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Lodo Springs is a spectacularly located luxury lodge in a remote spot in the Loisaba Conservancy, sister lodge to Loisaba Tented Camp and Loisaba Star Beds.
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When to go to Laikipia
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Loisaba Tented Camp in Laikipia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Laikipia in January
Clear, warm days and mild nights make this a popular time for safaris in Laikipia. It's excellent for game viewing in all the conservancies, where water sources attract diverse wildlife. The dry conditions make it easier to spot black rhinos, lions and leopards. Star bed sleep-out options at a number of lodges are particularly magical under the clear night skies.
After the New Year period, many camps and lodges treat January as mid-season, offering good value. The landscape retains some greenery, enhancing photography.
- Clear days ideal for safaris
- Excellent visibility for wildlife viewing
- Dry riverbeds attract wildlife to water sources
- Calving season for wildebeest and antelopes
- Palearctic migrant birds abundant
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in January
Laikipia in February
With the short dry season well established in Laikipia, wildlife gathers close to water points, making it an excellent time for safaris. Ol Pejeta and Lewa Wildlife Conservancies offer prime viewing opportunities for endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional black rhino sightings during this period. The grass is grazed down, improving visibility across the region.
February is ideal for walking safaris, where you can appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem. The clear skies make stargazing from star beds an unforgettable experience. Cultural visits to local communities are particularly rewarding, as the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities and interactions.
- Prime time for wildlife gathering near water
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Palearctic migrant birds still present
- Low rainfall makes game drives rewarding
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Laikipia in March
As March progresses in Laikipia, the weather becomes increasingly hot and humid with more rain likely later in the month. Through most of the month, conditions are still good for game drives in most districts. As the month advances, the buildup to the rainy season becomes apparent.
This period can offer unique photographic opportunities as animals congregate around diminishing water sources. Accommodation costs decrease as the low season approaches.
- Early month offers great wildlife viewing
- Hot weather transitions to occasional rains
- Lower visitor numbers
- Lush vegetation begins to appear
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Laikipia in April
April usually sees established, serious rainfall in much of Laikipia, transforming the landscape. The southeast monsoon wind brings cooler temperatures and frequent downpours. While game viewing can be challenging due to lush vegetation, the green season offers unique experiences, with new-born animals visible among the verdant scenery.
The landscape bursts into life with vibrant colours, ideal for photography. Birdwatching is excellent with many species breeding. This is a quieter time for tourism, with lower accommodation rates at many places allowing for a more exclusive safari experience for great levels of service.
- Long rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Green season offers unique photo opportunities
- Lower rates at Laikipia's luxury lodges
- Buffalo and zebra calving season commences
- Birdwatching excellent
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Laikipia in May
May in Laikipia is characterised by ongoing rains and lush vegetation. While game viewing can be trickier, the vibrant landscapes offer spectacular photographic opportunities with very little dust. The landscapes are a sea of green, with diverse and thriving flora.
This is an excellent time for birdwatching across the region as breeding season continues. The Ewaso Nyiro river swells impressively. Despite potential challenges, patient visitors may witness dramatic scenes of predators hunting in the thick vegetation.
- Lush vegetation makes wildlife spotting trickier
- Great for landscape and nature photography
- Rutting season for wildebeest and impalas
- Frog breeding season in Laikipia's wetlands
- Mount Kenya views improve with clearer air
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Laikipia in June
As June progresses in Laikipia, the rains give way to slightly cooler, cloudy weather. This transition marks the beginning of a long, generally dry, high season for visitors. Game viewing improves as vegetation starts to thin, and conditions are comfortable.
The Ewaso Nyiro river, still full from the rains, attracts diverse wildlife. Accommodation rates begin to rise, reflecting the start of peak season.
- Rains subside, ushering in cooler weather
- High season begins with increased visitors
- Comfortable conditions game viewing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Laikipia in July
July in Laikipia brings cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for safaris. Animals concentrate around water sources on the conservancies, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the peak of the high season, with higher accommodation rates and visitor numbers. The dry conditions make it easier to spot elusive species like leopards and black rhinos.
- Cool weather perfect for walking and riding
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources
- Excellent conditions for photography tours
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in July
Laikipia in August
August in Laikipia offers mild, dry weather, perfect for safaris. The conservancies teem with wildlife, including endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. The landscapes offer stunning vistas and excellent conditions for game drives and walking safaris. The dry conditions make it easier to spot big cats across the region. This is peak season, so expect higher visitor numbers and accommodation rates.
You might consider combining your Laikipia safari with a stay at the nearby Samburu National Reserve, known for its “northern five” species – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich.
- Peak season for wildlife viewing in Laikipia
- Mild weather ideal for outdoor activities
- Busy period requires advance bookings
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in August
Laikipia in September
As September progresses in Laikipia, the weather typically remains dry with clearing skies, signalling excellent safari conditions. Early September can be busy, but visitor numbers decrease later in the month. In the conservancies, game viewing is exceptional as animals congregate around limited water sources.
September generally offers excellent conditions for photography.
- Hot, dry weather with good visibility
- Quieter period for more exclusive safaris
- Natural bush fires flush out insects and small animals for predators
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Laikipia in October
October in Laikipia brings generally hot and mostly dry conditions, ideal for safaris. It's a favourite month for many visitors due to the good weather and fewer visitors. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing, with animals concentrated around water sources. The Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional rhino sightings in the dry conditions.
Birdwatching is rewarding as Palearctic migrants begin to arrive. Cultural visits to Maasai communities remain a highlight. Consider combining your Laikipia safari with a trip to the nearby Samburu National Reserve for a diverse wildlife experience.
- Warm or hot and mostly dry conditions for safaris
- Migratory birds start arriving
- Perfect for photography
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Laikipia in November
November in Laikipia marks the beginning of the short rains, usually in the latter half of the month. This transition brings about dramatic changes in the landscape. Early November can still offer good game viewing before the rains intensify. Then the bush begins to green, creating beautiful scenery.
As the low season begins, accommodation rates decrease, and visitor numbers drop too, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience. Birdwatching becomes excellent with the arrival of many migratory species. November is ideal for photographers capturing the changing landscapes and dramatic skies, with low dust and clear air. Cultural visits to Maasai communities offer insights into how local life adapts to the changing seasons.
- Short rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Low season offers better rates and privacy
- Excellent time for birdwatching in Laikipia
- Lush scenery provides stunning backdrops
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Laikipia in December
In a typical December, Laikipia sees the short rains finish by mid-month, leaving the landscape at its most beautiful. Clear blue skies return, heralding the start of the second peak visitor season from around 20 December onwards. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing with lush backdrops.
Christmas can occasionally be wet, but most years see perfect safari conditions by the festive season. This is an ideal time to combine wildlife viewing with cultural experiences, such as visiting Maasai communities.
- Rains typically end, leaving landscapes lush
- Peak tourist season begins mid-month
- Christmas safaris popular in conservancies
- Night sky clarity ideal for stargazing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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