Loldia House: A Classic Rift Valley Retreat on the Shores of Lake Naivasha
Welcome to Loldia House, a property that embodies the spirit of classic Kenyan hospitality.
It is nestled under ancient acacia and wild fig trees. Moreover, on the green western shores of Lake Naivasha, this farmhouse turned boutique lodge offers an experience steeped in history.
For guests beginning their Kenya safari journey, it serves as the perfect introduction to the country’s diverse landscapes.
Additionally, as part of the renowned Governors’ Camp Collection, the property provides an authentic and intimate escape from modern life.
At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we specialize in crafting tailor-made safaris that go beyond the ordinary. We believe the best journeys blend discovery with deep relaxation, and Loldia House embodies this philosophy perfectly. Situated on a 6,500-acre ranch, the property’s main archway frames a stunning view of the dormant volcano, Mount Longonot, offering a picturesque backdrop for what is often described as a “home away from home”.
A Storied History and Timeless Design
The charm of Loldia House lies not just in its location, but in its remarkable history. The main house was constructed from local volcanic stone by Italian prisoners of war during the late 1930s. It stands on land originally established by a Boer ‘trekker’ who arrived from South Africa after the Boer War. Remarkably, his descendants still own the farm today, maintaining a legacy of cattle ranching and commercial ostrich farming.
The ambiance is one of old-world elegance. The main house features four ensuite rooms, while three separate cottages and two luxury suites are dotted throughout the lush gardens, each offering unique views of the lake or the surrounding hills. To top it all off, the house manager, Peter Njoroge, was described by Country Life magazine as “probably the world’s best butler,” a testament to the impeccable service that defines a stay here.
Unforgettable Activities in the Great Rift Valley
While the lodge is a sanctuary for relaxation, it is also a hub for adventure. The location in the Great Rift Valley provides endless opportunities to explore Kenya’s wildlife-rich lakes and landscapes.
Game drives and night safaris explore the 6,500-acre private ranch where wildlife thrives. The plains around the airstrip are a magnet for wildlife, where you can spot impalas, buffalo, Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, warthogs, and zebras.
Additionally, for the more adventurous, night drives reveal a hidden world of nocturnal species, including white-tailed mongooses, spring hares, and zorillas.
Lake Naivasha Boat Safaris
A boat trip on Lake Naivasha is essential. It offers a peaceful yet thrilling perspective of the highest lake in the Rift Valley. Keep your eyes peeled for pods of grunting hippos bathing in the water and the abundant birdlife, including the iconic African fish eagle, yellow-billed stork, and cormorants. You can also take a guided walk and picnic on Crescent Island to spot wildebeest, waterbuck, and zebra up close.
Cultural and Nature Excursions
For those seeking a deeper connection, Loldia House facilitates visits to the Eburru Forest to see the honey-harvesting demonstrations by the Ogiek people. Birdwatchers will find paradise at the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust and the nearby lakes Elementeita and Nakuru, which are famous for their seasonal flamingo populations.
Accommodation and Family-Friendly Facilities
Loldia House strikes the perfect balance between privacy and community. With only nine rooms, it ensures an intimate atmosphere. The lodge has recently introduced interconnecting family rooms, which are perfect for those keeping children close while maintaining privacy, offering rain showers, alcove bathtubs, and double vanities.
- Rooms: Classic farmhouse chic with authentic and original furniture and fireplaces.
- Facilities: Guests can enjoy a swimming pool with lake views, a spa for relaxation, and a lounge, library, and bar where stories are shared.
- Dining: Meals are often served on the lawn overlooking the lake, where hippos are known to graze in the evenings.
Loldia House Rates
| Suite | ||||||||
| Dates | PP | SRS | Child | 1 Guest | 2 Guests | 3 Guest | ||
| 1 Jan-31 Mar, June & 1 Nov-15 Dec 2025 | 623 | N/A | 404 | 743 | 1365 | 1988 | ||
| April & May 2025 | 424 | N/A | 276 | 544 | 969 | 1393 | ||
| 1 July-31 Oct & 16-312 Dec 2025 | 936 | 234 | 609 | 1290 | 1991 | 2927 |
PP-Per Adult Sharing a Room|SRS-Single Room Supplement|Child-3-≤16 Years
Rates include full board accommodation. Three meals per person per night booked, purified water and a welcome drink, and laundry. Together with applicable VAT thereon, transportation of tourists and boat rides with Lodge’s boat on Lake Naivasha. Additionally, transportation of tourists will be in our custom built 4WD vehicles. We travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell’s Gate National Park, Elementaita, Eburu Forest Reserve, and Bongo. And to local flower farms, the local school, and Crescent Island by vehicle for bird-watching.
Rates also include all soft drinks, beers, house wines and non-premium spirits. Moreover, champagnes, selected fine wines, premium spirits and liqueurs will be charged as extras. For groups and incentives, we reserve the right to charge drinks on consumption. Alternatively, we may levy a drinks supplement.
Rates exclude premium drinks and personal expenses, Loldia Conservation Fees and Lake Nakuru / Hell’s Gate Park Fees, Elementaita Park Fees, Eburu Forest Reserve Park Fees, and Crescent Island Park Fees.
The Governors’ Camp Collection: Sister Properties Across Kenya
Loldia House is the tranquil Rift Valley jewel in the crown of the esteemed Governors’ Camp Collection. This allows guests to enjoy a multi-destination safari with consistent, award-winning quality and service . The collection is renowned for being a pioneer in the industry, having established the first permanent luxury tented camp in the Maasai Mara in 1972 . The group has also been recognized as Kenya’s Leading Tented Safari Camp Brand at the World Travel Awards .
To help you build the ultimate Kenya safari itinerary with Beyond Kenya Safaris, here are the sister properties within the same portfolio:
Sister Camps in the Maasai Mara
For the quintessential savanna experience and front-row seats to the Great Migration, the Governors’ camps in the Maasai Mara are legendary.
- Governors’ Camp: The original safari icon, located on the banks of the Mara River. It is famous for its prime wildlife viewing, being the base for the BBC’s Big Cat Diary . The camp offers 37 spacious tents and is ideal for families and those seeking a classic safari experience right in the heart of the action .
- Little Governors’ Camp: A more intimate alternative, this camp offers a secluded marsh-side setting in the Mara, providing a slightly quieter experience while still offering exceptional game viewing .
- Governors’ Il Moran Camp: The ultra-luxury offering in the Mara. With just ten exclusive tents on the river, it features king-size beds, Victorian bathtubs, and a highly personalized service, making it perfect for honeymooners or those seeking privacy and sophistication .
Sister Camp in Laikipia
For a more rugged and conservation-focused adventure, the Laikipia property offers a different side of Kenya’s wilderness.
- Governors’ Mugie House: Located within a 50,000-acre private conservancy in Laikipia, this property offers a conservation-focused safari experience . With just seven stone cottages, it provides sweeping views over the Laikipia plains and opportunities to see rare species like reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebras . Guests can participate in hands-on activities like tracking lions with rangers or visiting the anti-poaching unit .
in summary
Loldia House is more than just a place to stay; it is an experience in Kenyan history, culture, and wildlife. Whether you are watching hippos graze at dusk, sipping sundowners with Mount Longonot in the background, or learning about local conservation efforts, Loldia House is a true gem in the Great Rift Valley. Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today to start planning your unforgettable journey to this timeless retreat. We can help you combine it with its sister camps for a comprehensive and unforgettable Kenyan adventure.
Gallery
<p></p>